Learning how to square dance
Mary Klootwyk
SaddleBrooke Squares held an introduction to square dancing last month that resulted in 10 people signing up for lessons. These enthusiastic dancers joined a group of experienced dancers, known in the square dance world as ‘angels,’ the following week to start learning the basic moves of square dancing. While the square dance steps were explained by the caller, the four couples in each square performed the movements. These 10 dancers had so much fun, they have been coming back each week to learn more.
Square dancers can attest to all forms of physical activity that are good for the mind, body, and soul, and square dancing is no exception. Doing so on a regular basis contributes to the following:
Cardiovascular fitness: Dancing—Round, Contra/Traditional, and Square—is a safe way to exercise. The moves are interesting and the level of exertion is up to each participant. “Rev up” for a high-intensity workout, or take it slow and easy for a relaxing yet beneficial workout. Dancing regularly can lead to a slower heart rate, lower blood pressure, and an improved cholesterol profile.
Healthy environment: Square dance clubs are smoke and alcohol free. This allows the participant to dance and socialize in a safe environment.
Body and brain boost: Square dancing dancers react to directions which are given, forcing the body and brain to be tightly coordinated. A number of moves are memorized, which helps keep the mind sharp.
Calories burned: Dancing burns between 220 and 400 calories in 30 minutes—that’s the equivalent of walking, swimming, or riding a bike.
Steps: The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports recommends 10,000 steps per day to maintain physical fitness. Dancing, on average, provides over 3,000 steps per hour.
Sturdy bones: The side-to-side movement of dancing strengthens weight-bearing bones in the hips and legs, which helps prevent and slow the loss of bone mass.
Rehabilitation: Square dancing is a great way to get back into the swing of things. If you are recovering from an injury, dancing keeps your joints moving and is a nice alternative to jogging or other high-impact activities.
Social aspect: You never know who you’re going to meet on the dance floor as you move around your square to dance with others … it’s easy to make friends. Lifetime relationships are formed and some even meet the loves of their lives. There are dancing groups worldwide for everyone—handicapable people, gays and lesbians, youth, singles, and couples. Live Lively—Square Dance!
Check out our website at saddlebrookesquares.com for more information.