Feel the power of dance
Gentle movement is not just good for your body; it also feeds your soul and makes you happy.
Every Thursday morning at Dancenorth in Townsville, a group of mostly over-55s gathers for “Still Dancing”, a slower-paced movement class built around connection and confidence.
One 79-year-old participant told the ABC she found “a sense of joy” through the class, while an 84-year-old classmate said the non-judgmental style lets people “follow your body”.
That joy matters, because the best exercise is often the one we want to keep doing.
Health authorities recommend that older adults stay active with a mix of strength, balance, and aerobic activities.
It’s suggested that adults aged 65 and over aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, plus muscle-strengthening and balance work
Dance can contribute to these goals by raising the heart rate, strengthening muscles, improving coordination, and challenging balance in a way that feels social and playful rather than clinical.
A 2024 systematic review of dance interventions for middle-aged and older adults found that structured dance was a safe and relatively effective alternative to conventional exercise, with many studies showing improvements in physical function, balance, postural control, and quality of life.
Another global review described dance as a meaningful, adaptable and low-cost health resource for older adults, noting benefits for physical endurance, strength and function, as well as psychosocial wellbeing.
Movement classes also address a major public health concern: falls. Regular physical activity can reduce fall risk, support independent living, improve bone health, and benefit brain health.
Australian guidelines recommend older adults include functional activities targeting mobility, balance, and coordination on three or more days each week.
But the ABC case study highlights something statistics can miss: belonging.
“Still Dancing” has grown from a handful of regulars to about 30 people, creating a community where older participants feel valued and free to move without judgment.
For people who dislike repetitive gym routines, dance offers music, imagination, and friendship, which are all powerful motivators for long-term wellbeing.
The advice for beginners is to start gently, choose a class that welcomes all abilities, and check with a health professional if you have any medical concerns.
Related reading: ABC, Department of Health, CDC, Better Health
Photo by RDNE Stock project/Pexels
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