Ballroom Dancing: Healthy, Sexy, and Fun!

When young people think of the words "ballroom dancing," they usually think of elderly dancers, boring elevator music, structured uncomfortable, footwork, and a formal atmosphere. Though shows like So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing With The Stars have done a lot to turn this unfortunate stereotype around, there is still a lack of teens interested in ballroom. This is a shame because ballroom, though requiring structure and time, has many benefits. It's a great way to exercise, boosts self esteem, improves relationships, and provides a great outlet for stress and tension.

Exercise-

Cha-cha, Salsa, Tango, Mambo, Fox trot, you name it. Latin style dance especially involve hips, quick steps, and into-the-ground movements. However, any type of ballroom dancing increases the heart rate and burns calories. The music is anything BUT boring; there can be drums, harsh violin notes, an outburst of hip hop, or a melodic soprano. Even the simplest of steps, like the basic swing step, will bring up a sweat after an hour or so. At my local ballroom there exists a Latin dance workout (Zumba) that integrates footwork from different Latin styles.

Boosts Self Esteem-

In ballroom, the man learns how to lead and the woman learns how to follow. Both benefit in developing controlled motions and also in being able to share their progress with their fellow dancer. Even if a misstep occurs, there is little pressure to do perfectly, and, more often than not, success will soon follow. The man feels pleasure in being able to effectively guide his lady across the floor, while the lady is pleased when she can respond effortlessly to the different signals from his body.

Improves relationships-

Anyone can dance with anyone- I have danced with someone from practically every age group, and each time brings with it a new experience. Ballroom dancing teaches people to trust one another, and without even having to speak! Most dancers, whether experienced or not, will be welcoming and helpful. Those who have danced for most of their lives are almost bound to teach you something, or dance with you. For ladies this is especially grand because an experienced lead can really take them off their feet.

Outlet for stress and tension-

Dancing is a way to get out there and get lost in the beat. It is one of the best ways I am able to relieve my stress and tension, not only from the body but from the mind. I never know what's coming next in a social dance setting, and that's what makes it more exciting! Not only that, but I can always go with a group of friends, which leaves minimal pressures to do outstandingly well on the floor. I have always liked dance even before I tried ballroom, but now that I have been exposed to this type of dancing I can never go back. Ballroom can be danced to any music, and offers many different styles depending on my mood. When I'm out ballroom dancing, I forget about my problems. 

These are only a few reasons ballroom dancing is such a wonderful activity- I didn't even mention what all the styles entail, the list of health benefits, or the opportunities dancing might open up for someone. So, whether it's with a loved one or by ones self, ballroom dancing is a great way to have some fun on a weekend. Really, ballroom dancing is something one must go out and experience before they truly understand its beauty. So, maybe look up a ballroom place in town and check it out. It can't hurt, right? Maybe you will enjoy it as much as I do.

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