Dance Class

Dance Mix for people over 50

Let’s explore why dance practices should be embraced by all and how to get started so you can experience its many benefits.

Dance Mix is a fun and inclusive full body aerobic workout. The class is based on a variety of different dance styles from all over the world, and the steps are easy to follow. Every class is 60 minutes long and it is recommended that people practice at least twice a week in order to get the most out of the class. Through a combination of fun music and accessible steps, Dance Mix offers an enjoyable workout experience for everyone.

Warm Up / Cool Down

Selection from 7-9 different genres with fun entertainment and laughter guarantee

Exclusive Choreography

In Adelaide, I am offering this class since 2020 at Brain X Body Fitness Studio a service of The Hospital Research Foundation

To learn more about this revolutionary approach run by Parkinson’s SA click here.

Reference from Brain X Body Fitness Studio

Tayla Haslam

Accredited Exercise PhysiologistBrain x Body Fitness studio state manager

Andriza Freitas has been providing services to The Brain x Body Fitness Studio since opening our doors in January 2020. Andriza has slowly built the dance and yoga classes over time and has been a reliable and integral contributor to the studio’s success thus far.

Andriza is a passionate yoga and dance instructor and her upbeat and cheerful nature make her a pleasure to work with in the studio. Andriza enthusiastic nature allows her to build relationships with all her students, no matter their age, ability, or gender.

Andriza is always looking for new ways to challenge her students and is always willing to learn and grow as an instructor. Throughout her time at The Brain x Body Fitness Studio, Andriza has had to increase her knowledge and awareness surrounding many conditions and diseases, specifically Parkinson’s disease. Andriza can confidently understand her limits and always seeks guidance, education, and support from the Exercise Physiologists to work safely and effectively with all students.

Andriza has not only excelled at teaching dance and yoga but she also nurtures a sense of community with every class she teaches. Andriza shares the studio’s attitude which encourages social engagement between members and staff.

Andriza has been involved in creating and rehearsing a dance routine to perform with the BBFS dance members at the annual Parkinson’s conference held in Adelaide in 2022. This was a primary example of where Andriza has created a strong community within the group who performed together. While many were nervous about performing, Andriza’s energetic yet calming nature encouraged the women to step outside of their comfort zone to perform and it was a huge success. Andriza has been and will continue to be an asset at The Brain x Body Fitness Studio and we look forward to watching her continue to grow and learn as a dance and yoga instructor.

Benefits of dance classes for people over 50

Dance Mix classes can be particularly beneficial for people over 50, as they offer a unique combination of physical, mental, and social advantages. The aim of this class is to get people moving without being intimidated by the word ‘dance’ or the technicality of the steps, but instead to give a full body workout that is such fun that you don’t even notice that you are exercising. With the vast number of dance styles around the world to choose from, no one will ever get bored!

One of the most significant benefits of dance classes for individuals over 50 is improved physical fitness. Dance is a fantastic form of exercise that engages the entire body, promoting strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Unlike traditional workouts, dance mix classes offer a dynamic and enjoyable way to stay active, making it easier to stick to a regular exercise routine. The variety of dance styles incorporated in these classes ensures that participants engage different muscle groups, leading to a well-rounded and balanced workout.

Dance classes can help improve balance and coordination, which are essential for maintaining stability and preventing falls, a common concern for older adults. The intricate footwork and rhythmic movements involved in dance require focus and concentration, enhancing proprioception and spatial awareness. By regularly practicing dance steps, individuals over 50 can improve their balance and coordination, leading to increased confidence and reduced risk of injuries.

Dance classes also provide numerous mental health advantages. Engaging in dance requires memorizing choreography, following rhythm, and coordinating movements, all of which stimulate the brain and improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that dance can enhance memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, making it an excellent activity for maintaining mental sharpness as we age.

Participating in group dance classes provides an opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and build a sense of community. The shared experience of learning and dancing together fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, which can boost self-esteem and overall well-being. Additionally, the social interaction involved in dance classes can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among older adults.

Dance Mix classes offer a unique cultural experience by exploring various dance styles from around the world. This exposure to different cultures and traditions can broaden horizons, increase cultural awareness, and foster a deeper appreciation for diversity. Learning dances from different countries also provides a mental and physical challenge, keeping the mind engaged and the body active.

Dance Mix classes, offer a multitude of benefits for individuals over 50. From improved physical fitness and balance to enhanced cognitive function and social interaction, dance provides a holistic approach to overall well-being. So, if you're looking for a fun and effective way to stay active, meet new people, and explore different cultures, consider joining dance mix classes and let the rhythm guide you to a healthier and happier life.

Testimonials

I am 66 years old and I was one of Andriza's dance students. She is an excellent teacher, very creative as a choreographer and has a lot of patience and care with her students. Dance is very important to me, because / can exercise, have fun and exercise my attention, balance, coordination and memory at the same time, which is very important for those who are already over 50 years old.

- Lucy Montero

l'm 58 years old. I had been looking for an activity that suited my age, but that was also fun - something to make me 'leave home for'. I'd had a few unsuccessful experiences, all classes seemed monotonous or risky for my age. Then a friend recommended dance classes with teacher Andriza. I liked it since my first class. We always started with stretching exercises, followed by warm up exercises. After them we danced to different types of music (waltz, tango, samba, salsa, pop) shaking all parts of our bodies. This was a light, joyful, efficient and very pleasant activity. At the end of the class we had breathing and posture exercises, finishing the class with a relaxing massage made by teacher Andriza. I miss her classes because they helped me get fit, control weight and be in a good mood.

- Ângela Paranhos de Galindo

I am 64 years of age. A couple of years ago I lost my mother to a long battle with alzheimer's disease. After this, I found I had too much spare time on my hands and decided to focus on my fitness and flexibility as I suffer with some arthritis and have high blood pressure. I joined Anytime Fitness and just over 12 months ago started Andriza's yoga class. I had only ever done a yoga beginner class many years ago so / was nervous to begin with and unsure whether I would be able to "cope" with the class. I found that Andriza's practices begin with a lot of care and gentle asanas to warm up the body. She is encouraging and supportive when I am unable to do certain challenging asanas (offering gentler alternatives - particularly when my knees and shoulders play up!). Andriza also ensures that there are cool down poses at the end of the class and a time of relaxation and meditation.12 months on and I am still attending Andriza's yoga classes (I go 3 times per week now.) Apart from increased flexibility, better balance and less soreness in my muscles I have also found that it has had a positive effect on my mental well-being. It has helped me remain calm in day to day situations which in the past would have thrown my mind into turmoil. Looking for some aerobic exercise (and not interested at my age in HIlT nor a personal training session where the trainer tells me "feel the burn!") I joined Andriza's cardio dance classes. Again Andriza spends time at the beginning of the class on warm up and stretching moves before increasing the intensity. This certainly helps my muscles to relax in order for me to cope with the aerobic part of the class. In addition, instead of continual pounding exercises or too many repetitive moves she incorporates latin dance sequences into the exercise routine. This makes the class more interesting as well as engaging my brain and co-ordination learning the moves - I really enjoy this part of the class particularly learning new sequences - it takes my mind off the fact I am actually exercising and getting my heart rate up. In my opinion Andriza is an excellent yoga, cardio and dance teacher. I still enjoy and look forward to her classes.