Level 2 line dance class takes a photo break in the Hacienda aerobics room. They just perfected ‘Smoky Places,’ their newest dance-a rumba. ‘Cowboy Rhythm’ will follow this break and pump up their heart rates.
Dr. Mark Magdanz
From fitness.com we learn that dancing can replace regular low-impact exercises like cycling, walking, swimming or aerobics. You can actually burn large numbers of calories, have fun and lose weight at the same time. Who’d have thought? A 150-pound adult can burn 450 calories doing 90 minutes of dancing. Best of all you’re not thinking about weight loss. Research shows dancing keeps your mind and body healthier as you age. Dancing increases brain chemicals that help you grow/repair nerve connections. Dances that require learned steps actually increase your brain power/memory skills. Dancing is also now known to reduce risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Any kind of dance has you using all the different body parts and all the different muscles. It therefore helps to strengthen bones and tone your entire body and brain. All forms of dance are known to lower risk of heart disease, control weight and strengthen the bones/muscles especially of your back, legs and hips. Just dance, dance, dance.
With Rebecca’s classes you’ll gain fun, exercise, balance, strength, new friends, brain maintenance, increased memory, muscle tone, bone strength, self-confidence and consistent fun. A willingness to laugh at yourself and with others will be your greatest asset. It is required that you be nice to yourself and allow yourself the time to catch the basics. No frustration allowed; just let yourself learn and enjoy.
Level 1 Beginners class is for those new to line dancing. Classes occur Wednesdays at the Hacienda aerobics room or you may attend Monday mornings in SaddleBrooke.
Level 2 Easy Intermediate classes provide a bit faster learning and dancing workout. Those who have previous training and/or experience occasionally may jump directly this level quickly. For this level you’ll need step knowledge and more established stamina. Ranch classes are Wednesday afternoons, but you should verify fitness and skills with Rebecca if you are a new student. You may also attend classes on Monday afternoons and/or Tuesday mornings in SaddleBrooke.
Level 3 Intermediate is the most challenging class with more complex dances and a vigorous workout. Classes are Thursdays in the early afternoons and only in SaddleBrooke.
Fun and vigorous Happy Feet Sessions occur year-round on Thursday for Level 1 and Saturday for Levels 2 and 3.
It’s time to claim a spot on the fall and/or winter dance floor. If you are returning just for the cooler season, make arrangements now. This fall, 10 classes are planned for each level starting the end of September. Provisions can be made for those who will miss a lesson or two due to your travels or later season return.
Classes are taught on a reservation basis to control size and ensure a favorable learning opportunity. Put your name on one of the class lists by contacting Rebecca Magdanz at [email protected] or phone 818-2656. Rebecca has produced happy SaddleBrooke Ranch dancers for several years in the Hacienda fitness room.