8 Reasons You Should Incorporate Dance Into Your Fitness Routine

Don’t resist the urge to shake your booty: Dancing has some serious perks for your physical, mental and emotional health. Video of the Day If you’ve been dabbling with the idea of dance, here are eight reasons you should finally add a little rhythm to your fitness routine. Having a stressful day? Fitting in a dance class may be the last thing on your to-do list, but a little boogie session can be just the stress-reliever your mind and body need. When you dance, you’re not focusing on the stress in your personal life, says New York-based dance fitness instructor Delia Marmol , who adds that all your day-to-day worries practically disappear instantaneously. "Halfway through the warmup, people are already more relaxed and ready to let loose." There’s a scientific reason for this chilled-out effect. During exercise, the brain releases endorphins — your body’s natural painkillers — which can help alleviate anxiety and stress, says Selina Shah , dancer and sports medicine physician for the Diablo Ballet Dance Company and Axis Dance Company. That’s why you feel so calm and satisfied after a good workout. There’s just something about grooving to the radio that makes you feel carefree. In part, it’s the rush of feel-good endorphins that flood your system when you bounce to a beat. Plus, listening to music also triggers the release of the "happy chemical" dopamine in the brain, according to a January 2011 study published in Nature Neuroscience . That’s why hearing your favorite song puts you on cloud nine. But there’s even more to celebrate about dance: It can also make you feel better about yourself . One August 2010 study in Arts & Health found that cutting a rug could boost your self-esteem. Especially if you’re a little shy, dancing can help you […]

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