Friday, July 17, 2009

Dance: A Perfect Way to Get in Shape


During the summer, I live in Maine where my husband owns and operates summer camps for children, and I love it because I climb the Camp’s 50 foot climbing wall, play tennis and hike the beautiful area mountains. I have also put together a workout group of about 12 women here at camp and we meet three days a week for a kick-butt session. Our workouts are 90 minutes of high energy training – high energy music – and high energy fun! Today we danced for our 90 minutes to Michael Jackson’s Thriller, RIP Michael – we’re all still tearing it up to your amazing sounds!

What I really love about my workouts with trainer Beth Bielat is that she always mixes it up and keeps it fun and interesting for us. We dance, we do step aerobics, we kick box, and we use free weights and bands. Studies show that participating in classes like these where you must listen, process the direction from the aerobics instructor and then translate that into physical movements will not only keep your body fit, but will also keep your mind alert! I like the sound of that - that’s great multi-tasking in my book! So put on some hot music and get up and start dancing!!

Dancers have long been revered for their long, lean muscles, strength and flexibility. Professional dancers must challenge their mind, body and spirit every time they step into the studio. Following intricate choreography requires that dancers memories be lightening fast. There is no separation between mind and body; dance takes extreme focus and discipline of the mind/body connection.

Come on, if you are going to sweat and work out for 90 minutes, why not have fun dancing. Rather than clenching our jaws at weight machines -- we start bobbing our heads to the beat as soon as our feet begin moving, and all of a sudden we can’t help but move our shoulders, then our hips! The adrenaline starts pumping and sweat is dripping down your face, but you don’t care because it feels so good to just let loose. Dancing is awesome! Dancing can burn calories, sculpt gorgeous lean muscles, train your mental focus and lift your spirit all at the same time. Dancing is physically demanding and can be a great way for anyone to get into shape.

2 comments:

Riselle said...

I love to dance! It is a great way to get your heart pumping, move to music and stay physically fit. Dance and exercise improve one's coordination, balance and agility. Dancing makes you forget about your troubles and reduces stress. Dancing and exercise help your body feel strong and when you feel healthy and strong you feel like you can tackle anything!
Special thanks to Beth Bilat and Joan for organizing the dance and exercise fitness class where we sweat, move and laugh together. All year long, I look forward to our three time a week exercise classes and Camp Reveille. I'm one of the Takajo Twelve. Riselle

shakla said...

Exercise is FUN! I thoroughly enjoy working out with Joan, and 'Bionic Beth' through the summer. Every workout with the "Takajo 12" offers a new and exciting challenge as Beth gets us in shape for Camp Reveille 09! As I sing along with Beth's great music, (and sweat profusely), the 90 minute class passes all too quickly. This year I have taken my Reveille prep to a new level by incorporating a 'healthy eating regimen.' I feel energized, yet peaceful, strong and renewed!! Thank you Joan!! Thank you Beth!! ~~Laura

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