Rancheros Square Dancers get ready to help Rotarians learn a few steps.
Rebecca Williams
There is a free lesson being offered on Sunday, Oct. 11 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. This is a great way to get acquainted with square dancing!
Dancing Is Great for Both a Mental and Physical Workout
Square dancing is low impact, but still great, aerobic exercise. A study comparing this type of dancing with walking and stretching suggests that the demands that dancing places on the mind and body make it especially powerful at slowing some of the mental changes of aging, an effect not seen in those who walked or stretched.
Square dancing involves constant movement, along with quick directional changes that work together to keep the body in shape and in balance. It is also excellent mental exercise, as the dancer recalls and executes the caller’s instructions, moving with others from one formation to another as the instructions are called out. The teamwork of the square makes it a fun social activity as you join with and help others to execute the calls.
If You Can Walk, You Can Square Dance!
Today’s Western Square Dancing is characterized by dancers forming “squares” of four couples who dance specific movements they have learned as the guide, or “caller,” calls them out. Here are just a few reasons to give Square Dancing a try:
* Great physical exercise involving almost constant movement without being overly tiring as you step in time with the music. You can walk several miles in an evening without even realizing it.
* Good mental exercise as you learn and execute each step, reacting to what the caller is requesting and participating in the endless shapes that result. The challenge is not knowing what comes next. What is nice is that each dance is different as you are guided through it by the caller’s instructions.
* A great stress reliever as you don’t have to worry about leading or following. If you make a mistake, half the fun is figuring out where you need to be quickly. We laugh as we learn, and we are patient and welcoming to newcomers.
* A great way to meet people and make new friends. It is more social than other dances since you dance in a square with three other couples.
Dance to a Wide Variety of Music!
We dance to a wide variety of music from many genres including oldies, rock, classical, and country. This activity can be done by anyone in reasonable shape. You don’t have to be graceful. No fancy footwork or attire required.
Free Lesson Offered Sunday, Oct. 11!
The steps to square dancing are learned in a set of lessons that are being offered by the Rancheros Square Dance Club this fall. On Sunday, Oct. 11, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., there will be a free lesson offered. Please email Rebecca Williams at rebdwms19@outlook.com for details. This will help us to ensure we have enough experienced dancers there to help you.