The benefits of dancing include improving your physical fitness and your mental health, according to a dance teacher.

At the time, I didnt think much of it.

Another fact about me is that I wasnt actually an athlete in high schoolI was a theater kid.

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Which meant my activities included rehearsals, voice lessons, and dance.

So I began to wonder: Have I simply hit a second wind as I enter my 27th year?

Or could there be some benefits of dancing Id never considered?

Two young women practicing ballet with a teacher in the dance hall.

dance teacher and dancer for theMetropolitan Operaand founder ofThe Triangle Sessions

Check out the many benefits of dancing below.

Danielle Schulz, dance teacher and dancer

1.

It boosts cardio fitness

Dance gets your blood flowing.

Woman doing hip exercises

While you arent lifting weights, you are lifting and moving your body.

Dance classes also allow you to express yourself through artistry, according to Schulz.

In my personal experience, Ive also noticed that dance classes have improved my mind-body connection and memory.

Cropped image of woman doing lunge yoga pose

It provides a sense of community

Unless youre taking private lessons, dance classes are a social activity.

Its a great way to meet new people, build community, and support others in a similar goal.

Though teachers will push you to improve your technique, they are generally supportive, judgment-free zones.

Woman in leggings and bra doing Lunge with Arm Extended Up pose hip opener stretch during yoga session in morning at home.

dance teacher and dancer for theMetropolitan Operaand founder ofThe Triangle Sessions

Its just plain fun

Most of all,dance classesare fun.

(This is coming from someone who thinks shes hit a mile about two minutes into a run.)

And as long as youre having fun, theres a good chance youll be coming back for more.

Woman doing arm exercise without weights while sitting on mat at home.

I believe the best workout is the one youll actually do, Schulz says.

The same goes for dance.

The good news, however, is that youre not alone.

A woman in sports clothes does yoga or gymnastics at home. Daylight. She smiles

Adult dance classes have sprung up everywhere in recent years with levels ranging from absolute beginner to advanced.

It may just take a bit of trial and error to find whats best for you.

Schulz also points out theres no age limit when it comes to starting to dance.

He finds great joy in the art form, the community, and the spirit of competition.

It keeps his brain sharp and spirit young.

Not sure where to find classes?

Look up your local dance studios, community centers, and community colleges.

Chances are, youll be able to find a selection of classes in your area.

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Exercise for mental health.

Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry.

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