9 reasons to start dancing

1. You thinner
Dancing is a fun way to shed extra pounds. “It is possible to spend up to 500 calories (the same as a large bar of chocolate) in a ballroom dancing class”, says exercise physiologist Cláudia Zamberlan, from São Paulo.

2. High self-esteem
There is nothing better than taking pleasure in dancing and feeling capable of executing steps and choreographies. Who never felt powerful rocking the track? “By raising self-esteem, you also ward off depression”, says Cláudia.

3. New friends
Talking about choreography can be the beginning of a great friendship. “The students also agree to go out dancing, forming a very strong friendship circle”, says samba-rock teacher Moskito. Risking the steps also helps the shy ones to let go more and make new friends!

4. More health
With a few pounds less, you also avoid many problems related to a sedentary lifestyle, such as diabetes and hypertension. In addition, the dance steps and jumps strengthen the bones, giving an end to osteoporosis.

5. Improves memory
To perform the steps, you need to memorize the sequence and the right turns. Quite an exercise for the brain! “Recording the dance and music stimulates the neurological system, which boosts memory”, says Cláudia. To never go white again!

6. Shoo stress!
Dancing stimulates the release of two neurotransmitters, endorphin and serotonin, linked to the feeling of well-being and pleasure. Also, moving decreases the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. Release the tension!

7. Hard body
No wonder the dancers have envy-inducing legs. “Shifting, squatting or lifting works the calves, legs and buttocks. To execute the turns, the abdomen contracts”, says the physiologist. The arms, in general, are not so worked, but they look much better compared to those who do nothing. Here’s the tip.

8. The heart thanks
The steps and twirls strengthen the heart muscle, which will have to work less to perform the same functions. Result: you live longer! “Depending on the person, the regularity and the intensity, dancing reduces the beats from 90 to 70 times per minute”, adds Cláudia.

9. More benefits. Yay!
To look good on the runway or in the salon, you need to have good posture (goodbye back pain!). Dancing also develops balance, flexibility and coordination. “Uncoordinated people tend to suffer more injuries and get more tired”, concludes Cláudia. Do you still have doubts that dancing is very good?