We typically associate dancers with young, thin, fit people. After all, we seldom see anybody over thirty dancing on television or in the movies. Truth is, dancing has many benefits and no age limit. In fact, if you are an older adult who is considering taking up dancing for the first time, you will find it to be a very enriching experience with many health advantages to boot!

Any physical activity decreases the risk of serious illness and enhances physical and emotional well-being. As people age however, the significance of the above factors increases. Older adults who engage in dancing can expect some of the following benefits: improved balance, coordination and kinaesthetic awareness, improved alignment with decreased arthritis difficulties, insomnia, neuromuscular hypertension, and low back pain. Other than the above important physical advantages, dancing also provides important psychological and social benefits which sometimes are overlooked as older people focus more on their physical health.

Dance is a great form of self-expression, as everybody's dancing style is unique. Various styles of dance have different levels of structure, however all allow participants to be creative and explore new steps and routines.

Historically, dancing was primary a celebration meant to get people together while having fun. Almost all (if not all) cultures have some kind of dances which signify the given nation's identity and pride. Dancing naturally promotes camaraderie among the participants in an informal setting. Seniors who participate in dance may experience a decrease in isolation, loneliness and boredom, increased tactile support, cooperation and enjoyment, and also find something to do with their hands, feet, and body if communicating on a purely verbal level is awkward.

Dancing also delivers some more abstract benefits, which nonetheless participants find rewarding. These include improvements in rhythm and coordination, a means of relaxation and escape from everyday routine, a renewed interest in one's culture or heritage, and an opportunity for an adventure and new experiences.

Before signing up for a dance program, ask yourself some questions. First of all, what are the movements and fitness demand for the particular dance style you are considering? If your fitness level at the moment is minimal, you should be looking for dances with slower tempos. As you become more active, you can pick more challenging routines.

Another question to ask yourself; is how complex are the skills and expertise that are required for this dance? Older people need clear instructions and an opportunity to learn steps at their own pace. If you feel a little shy or anxious, start with a dance you're somewhat comfortable with and move on to harder stuff as your confidence grows.

Everybody should consult with their doctor before starting a new exercise routine, but for older adults it is of crucial importance. Your doctor should be able to help you decide on the level of intensity that is appropriate for you, as well as any sensitivity or weaknesses you should be aware of. Better yet, you should show a copy of your medical records to your dance instructor, so that he or she will be conscious of any medical issues that might be relevant to your performance or safety.

Older people might feel intimidated in a gym or studio setting, especially if they have limited or no experience with such. Therefore, your enjoyment of the dance program you choose depends on your comfort level with the instructor. Does he or she have a personality that makes you feel at ease and confident? Do they provide positive feedback and make you proud of your progress? These qualities will ensure that you look forward to coming to class and making the best of your dance workout.

Also, from a safety standpoint, the instructor should be familiar with health issues older participants face and be able to address them accordingly. For example, all classes should begin with carefully chosen warm-ups to slowly warm up the body. Toward the end of class, slower dances should be chosen to safely cool the body down. A method of relaxation is also beneficial at the end of the class.

Any or all of the above suggestions can be used to improve your comfort and pleasure as you break out of your comfort zone and try something new and fun!