While shows like Dancing with the Stars have brought more awareness to ballroom dancing, many people still think of it as an exclusive hobby. Despite what notions people may have about ballroom dancing, it is fun for individuals of all ages and income levels- and as an added bonus, it is extremely beneficial to your health. Students have experienced increased flexibility, better weight management, improved mental health, and much more. So, what makes people choose ballroom dance over a fitness center? If you ask the instructors at Fred Astaire Dance Studios Illinois, they will tell you that their studios pride themselves on helping people build confidence and on having a sense of community you won’t find at the gym. These studios have seen firsthand how ballroom dance has had the power to change lives, both mentally and physically. Each student has grown and flourished in their own way during their time at Fred Astaire.
“I have never been the sporty type, always more the bookish and creative type. I quit every other exercise program I tried after a few months, because I could never get to a point where I enjoyed them,” says Northbrook Studio dance student Christina Northam.
“I have been dancing for over a year now and still love it. I can’t believe I leave the studio both sweaty and happy, something I never experienced from any gym. My health and strength have improved. Plus, my posture and grace are noticeably better. I glide down the halls at work now. It isn’t easy pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, but dancing is easier than people think, and so rewarding on so many levels.”
Northbrook student Dave Menges has also seen the mental health benefits that ballroom dance can have. “Fred Astaire took a broken-hearted country line-dancer and turned him into a confident ballroom dancer,” he says.
The Fred Astaire studios in Mokena, South Barrington, and Northbrook, set out this last February to break the stereotypes associated with ballroom dance. Each studio invited current and prospective clients to join them for Fabulous February Fitness Month which focused on educating the community on how ballroom dance can benefit your health and wellness. Contrary to what some may think, ballroom dance is actually a great way to change your health, all while having fun and building confidence in the process. Joining these studios during the month were several health and wellness businesses including: Purple Sprout Cafe, GYMGUYZ Northbrook, Health and Nutz Natural Foods Mokena, The Transformation Station Orland Park, and many more. Thank you to all who were involved in helping Fred Astaire Ballroom Dance Studios of Illinois share health and wellness with the Chicagoland community.