WILMINGTON, N.C. — Dancing is one of the best workouts for your body, but it has a lot of other surprising benefits as well.  In addition to being a great physical workout, it builds confidence, enhances memory and helps with self expression. 

 

What You Need To Know

Oleksandr Zyrianov is a dance teacher at the Wilmington Fred Astaire Dance Studio, he’s a second generation dancer and has won numerous awards for his skills

Doug Holland is a dance student in his 70s who started dancing just 10 years ago. He says that dancing has helped his memory as well as keeping him physically fit

The Fred Astaire Dance Studio is open to all ages for all types of ballroom dance

 

Dance is more than just an art, it’s a way to help your body and your mind.  

Oleksandr Zyrianov teaching a dance lesson. Photo: Natalie Mooney

“I mean there’s like physical activities, cardio activities,” said Oleksandr Zyrianov, director of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Wilmington. “People come for the memories, for the balance to improve, other stuff, just to learn how to hold yourself up.”

If anyone understands those benefits, it’s Zyrianov. He’s been dancing for as long as he can remember, it’s in his blood.

“I’m a second generation of dancers. My parents danced together. They were second couple back in the Soviet Union. Ukraine, they were number two or top three for sure,” Zyrianov said. “So I had no choice but dance. Nobody even asked me if I wanted it or not, it just kind of happened. At the age of 9 I was like European champion, and I haven’t stopped since then.”

He says that dance increases flexibility, muscle strength and builds endurance.  It can also help with memory and stress relief, which is why senior dancer Doug Holland said he keeps coming back.

“For someone of my age, that’s really helped my balance,” Holland said. “And being forced to constantly think about what step I’m gonna do next and remember the steps is good for my mind, and I ward off the old forgetful disease. Plus it’s a lot of fun.”

Regardless of the physical and mental benefits, Holland said that dance is one of greatest discoveries.

“I started dancing in 2011 at the age of 67, and I wanted to change my life,” Holland said. "And I sure have.”

And Holland isn’t the only senior receiving the benefits of dance. Zyrianov said that he sees it all the time at his studio.

Doug Holland dancing with his partner. Photo by Natalie Mooney

“Yesterday, a great example, a guy came, he is … how old is he? 80? 78? 79? He had two artificial hips, two artificial knees. He had been dancing, and he said ‘Oh, my hips have never moved sideways but now they actually do,’” Zyrianov said. “So he was like super happy and wanted to continue dancing.”

Regardless of your age, one thing is for sure: It’s never a bad idea to dance.

The Fred Astaire Dance Studio has locations throughout the United States and seven other countries. It offers all types of classes for all different ages. You can learn more about the benefits of dance on its website here.