Dance Exercise Research Articles

The relationship between square dance exercise and quality of life in middle-aged and older adults: chain mediated effects of negative emotions and attitudes toward aging.

With the continuous development of society and the economy, population aging has become an inevitable global development trend, triggering a series of social problems and having a more serious impact on the physical and mental health of middle-aged and older adults. Physical exercise is one of the key factors for improving the overall health and quality of life of individuals, but the role of square dance exercise and the quality of life of middle-aged and older adults have not yet been clarified. This study aimed to investigate the associations between square dance exercise and the quality of life of middle-aged and older adults and its mechanism of action, including its effects on physical health and mental health, with negative emotions and attitudes towards aging as mediating variables. This study adopted a cross-sectional research method, using the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale in Simplified Chinese (DASS-21), Attitudes toward Aging Questionnaire (AAQ), and 12-item Short Form of the Health Survey (SF-12), and launched an online survey on the QuestionStar platform from August-September 2023 for 4,636 middle and older adults aged 45-74 years. The survey results were analyzed via Pearson correlation analysis via SPSS 27.0 and structural equation modeling analysis via Mplus 8.3 to test the model fit and mediation effects. Square dance exercise was significantly correlated with negative emotions, attitudes towards aging, and quality of life (r = -0.042-0.878, p < 0.01). Square dance exercise significantly and positively predicted quality of life (β = 0. 202, p < 0.001). Negative emotions and attitudes towards aging are chain mediators of square dance exercise and quality of life, and the mediation consists of three pathways: separate mediation of negative emotions, separate mediation of attitudes towards aging, and chain mediation of negative emotions-attitudes towards aging. This study is dedicated to deepening the scientific role of how square dancing, as a health-promoting activity, can optimize the quality of life of middle-aged and older adults through the mediating mechanism of negative emotion alleviation and positive attitudes towards aging and then optimize the quality of life of middle-aged and older adults. This process not only enriches the theoretical framework of the complex interactions between psychosocial factors and healthy aging but also provides a solid empirical foundation for the development of health intervention strategies aimed at enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life of the middle-aged and older adults.

The impact of integrated health Qigong and dance exercise on cardiovascular function in middle-aged and elderly women.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of health Qigong on vascular elasticity, blood lipid levels, and cardiac function in middle-aged and elderly women. By comparing various indicators preintervention and postintervention, the research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of health Qigong in enhancing cardiovascular health within this demographic. A total of 40 middle-aged and elderly women were randomly assigned to 2 groups. The experimental group, consisting of 20 women, practiced health Qigong combined with Tibetan dance for 12 weeks, 3 times per week, with each session lasting 60 minutes. The control group, also consisting of 20 women, continued their regular routines without any exercise intervention. Cardiovascular function metrics were subsequently compared between the 2 groups. (1) Pulse wave velocity: in the experimental group, significant improvements were observed, particularly in the right ankle (P =.02 for left ankle, P =.00 for right ankle). The control group showed no significant differences (P =.08 for both ankles); (2) blood lipid levels: the experimental group demonstrated significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels (P =.00 for both), while the control group showed no significant changes (P =.59 for total cholesterol, P =.71 for triglycerides). There were significant differences in high-density lipoprotein levels between the experimental and control groups (P =.00 and .01, respectively); (3) cardiac function: significant improvements were noted in cardiac output (Teich) and stroke volume (Teich) in the experimental group (P =.00 for both), while the control group showed no significant differences (P =.71 for cardiac output, P =.06 for stroke volume). Health Qigong, integrated with dance exercise effectively enhances pulse wave velocity, blood lipid levels, and cardiac function in middle-aged and elderly women. These findings suggest that incorporating such exercises may contribute to the prevention or delay of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease in this population.

236 A pilot and evaluation of a dance intervention for young women following cancer treatment: Dance Exercise Intervention South East (The DEISE project)

236 A pilot and evaluation of a dance intervention for young women following cancer treatment: Dance Exercise Intervention South East (The DEISE project)

194 Evaluating the Acute Physiological Response of People Living with Dementia and Care Partners to a Ceili Dance Exercise Class

194 Evaluating the Acute Physiological Response of People Living with Dementia and Care Partners to a Ceili Dance Exercise Class

The Effects of Aerobic Dance Exercise on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Factors and Senior Fitness Test in Elderly Women

The Effects of Aerobic Dance Exercise on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Factors and Senior Fitness Test in Elderly Women

Comprehensive assessment of the results of zorba dance-based rehabilitation in patients after myocardial infarction

Abstract Introduction Dance movement engages global muscle sequences of the human body, improves physical performance, and helps reduce stress and excessive muscle tension. Dance exercises allow you to better control your movement and muscles. Zorba Greek dancing as a form of physical activity brings benefits in the form of improved mental health, well-being and quality of life. Rehabilitation may contribute to improving cardiorespiratory fitness and mental condition in the group of patients after myocardial infarction. Aim of the study The aim of the study was to evaluate a rehabilitation program based on Zorba dance on selected clinical parameters in patients after myocardial infarction. Materials and methods The study included 99 patients after myocardial infarction who were rehabilitated for 5 weeks. Patients were enrolled into two groups. Group I (50 patients) performed cycle ergometer training and the Greek dance Zorba. Group II (49 patients) performed cycle ergometer training and rehabilitation exercises. At the beginning and after rehabilitation, patients' BMI, balance (scales: Tinetti, Berg, 30CST), gait (6MWT), psychophysical status (SF-36, WHO-5, FCIS), and breathlessness (mMRC scale) were assessed. Results After undergoing rehabilitation, there was a reduction in BMI (I vs. II p&amp;lt;0.01), improvement in balance on the Tinetti (I vs. II p&amp;lt;0.01) and Berg scale (I vs. II p&amp;lt;0.01), improvement in the 30CS test score (I vs. II p= 0.018), improvement in WHO-5 (I vs. II p&amp;lt; 0.01), and reduction in dyspnea (mMRC) (I vs. II p&amp;lt; 0.01) in the Zorba group. Conclusions Both methods of rehabilitation improve functional efficiency; However, rehabilitation with the use of Zorba dance additionally improves balance in patients after myocardial infarction.

여성 노인의 장기간 실버댄스 운동이 혈중 항산화 효소 2에 미치는 영향

여성 노인의 장기간 실버댄스 운동이 혈중 항산화 효소 2에 미치는 영향

The impact of square dancing on psychological well-being and life satisfaction among aging women

As the most popular sport among middle-aged and elderly women in China, square dancing has both physical and psychological benefits for menopausal women. Previous studies have shown that square dance exercises can promote the physical health of older women, but there is a lack of research on the influence of middle-aged and elderly women on mental health and mediating variables. Therefore, this study starts with one of the important indicators of mental health—positive affects, aiming to explore the impact of square dance on the positive emotions of elderly women and further explore the mediating mechanisms involved. We send out The Physical Activity Rating Scale, the Positive and Negative Affect Scale, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Satisfaction With Life Scale to a total of 2311 middle-aged and elderly women. SPSS 23 software and PROCESS were used to perform regression analysis and establish mediation models. Modeling results show square dance exercises could positively predict positive affect through the chain mediating effect of psychological resilience and life satisfaction. The results of this study are of great significance for promoting the extensive participation of middle-aged and elderly women in sports and protecting their mental health.

Effectiveness of dance interventions for falls prevention in older adults: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Fall prevention is a global health priority. Strength and balance exercise programmes are effective at reducing falls. Emerging literature suggests dance is an enjoyable and sociable form of exercise. However, there is little evidence that dance reduces fall incidence. Systematic review and meta-analysis examining effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of dance for falls prevention in older adults. Five databases were searched with no restrictions on publication date or intervention settings. Risk of bias was assessed using variants of Cochrane Risk of bias tools, Mixed-Methods Appraisal and Drummond checklist as appropriate. Certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE. Forty-one studies were included (19 RCTs, 13 quasi-experimental, two mixed-method, seven observational studies, 2,451 participants). Five types of dance interventions were identified: ballroom and Latin dance, dance exercise, cultural dance, dance therapy, and low-impact dance. Meta-analysis was only possible for functional outcome measures: Timed-Up-and-Go (dance versus usual care, mean difference (MD) = 1.36; 95% CI -3.57 to 0.85), Sit-to-Stand (dance versus exercise MD = -0.85; 95% CI -2.64 to 0.93: dance versus education MD = -1.64; 95% CI -4.12 to 0.85), Berg Balance Scale (dance versus usual care MD = 0.61; 95% CI -4.26 to 5.47). There was unexplained variance in effects and no significant differences between intervention and control groups. Overall, certainty of evidence was very low; we are uncertain about the effect of dance interventions in reducing falls. There is very low certainty evidence for dance as an alternative to strength and balance training if the aim is to prevent falls. No robust evidence on the cost-effectiveness of dance interventions for the prevention of falls was found. CRD42022382908.

Effects of chronic aerobic exercise on attentional bias among women with methamphetamine addiction

ObjectiveTo explore the effects of chronic exercise on attentional bias toward drug-related stimuli and on brain electrophysiological characteristics among women with methamphetamine addiction. MethodsIn total, 63 women with methamphetamine addiction were randomized to participate in a dance (n = 21; mean age, 32.16 ± 2.07 years), bicycle (n = 21; mean age, 32.59 ± 2.12 years), or control (maintained regular activities with little exercise; n = 21; mean age, 30.95 ± 2.81 years) group for 12 weeks. The participants in the three groups were not significantly different in terms of methamphetamine use or detoxification. Before and after the intervention, attentional bias was assessed using the dot-probe task, and event-related potentials were recorded during the task. ResultsThe mean attentional bias scores decreased significantly after the intervention in both exercise groups but not in the control group. After 12 weeks of dance exercise, the amplitudes of the N170, N2, P2, and P3 components of the event-related potentials decreased significantly during attentional bias processing. In addition, differences in N170 amplitudes for congruent vs. incongruent conditions in the dot-probe task were no longer observed. After 12 weeks of cycling exercise, N2 and P2 amplitudes decreased significantly. By contrast, there were no significant differences in N170, N2, P2, and P3 amplitudes in the control group before vs. after the intervention. ConclusionsChronic (12 weeks of) aerobic exercise reduced attentional bias toward drug-related cues by improving attentional inhibition and reducing the maintenance of extra attention to drug-related cues among women with methamphetamine addiction. Both dance and bicycle exercise improved the early recognition of drug-related cues, weakened the influence of the memory of previous drug use, and improved attentional bias behavior by strengthening attention control. Dance exercise, but not bicycling, also regulated emotional control and improved the attention selection process. These results provide theoretical and empirical evidence that chronic aerobic exercise may reduce the attentional bias toward drug-related cues to assist in the recovery of women with methamphetamine addiction.

Dancing Exercise Enhances Metabolic Functions via Hypercortisolism-Mediated Inhibition of Inflammatory Cytokines in Healthy Adult Volunteers

Regular physical activity has been proven to improve metabolism, slow aging, and decrease the likelihood of various health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. Hence, dancing was evaluated for its effects on cardiovascular, liver enzymes, and biochemical markers among healthy adults. Forty (40) healthy adults (20-40 years old) were chosen for the study, with an average age calculated. Those with certain health conditions or habits were not allowed to participate. Twenty (20) men and 20 women were chosen for the study, which involved dancing for 15 minutes a day, five days a week, for four weeks. Pre- and post-dancing groups were compared to measure any changes. Results indicated positive effects on health and well-being. The two groups were compared to analyze changes to cardiovascular, liver enzymes, and lipid profiles over a 4-week dance intervention. Both groups received assessments before and after the program, with the initial assessment taking place at 0 weeks and a follow-up at 4 weeks. This study found that a 4-week period of dancing exercise improved cardiovascular and lipid profiles (p &lt; 0.05) in both genders. These favorable impacts were reflected in lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure, decreased total cholesterol and triglycerides, and lowered LDL with corresponding increases in HDL. This study found that participating in a tailored dance exercise program decreased glucose, insulin, and HOMA index levels compared to pre-exercise levels. Additionally, levels of ALT, AST, and GGT dropped considerably, while ALP and LDH also decreased. Kidney function, including aminotransferase, creatinine, and uric acid, was also reduced after 24 hours of post-dancing exercise. Twenty-four hours of Post-dancing exercise was found to decrease serum IL-6, CRP, and stress hormones (epinephrine and cortisol) levels as well as increased IL-10 levels in healthy adults (P &lt; 0.05). Dancing could be demonstrated to be a practical non-medicinal approach to help prevent metabolic syndrome and reduce inflammation through increased cortisol production in healthy adults.

Development of Basic Finger Shapes Indonesian Traditional Dance Application Using Color-Based Hand Gesture Recognition

UNESCO stated that Indonesian traditional dance is a world cultural heritage that must be preserved and maintained. Efforts made by the government to preserve traditional dance are still not successful. Research shows that students have difficulty in learning traditional Indonesian dance exercises. Therefore, this study develops a solution that focuses on the difficulty of learning the basic finger postures in traditional Indonesian dances. This is important because fingers are instruments in dancing that have meaningful forms, such as Closed Urang Chopsticks, Nyempurit, Ngruji, Open Urang Chopsticks, Ke-pelan, Baya Mangap, and Ngithing. Learning the practice of basic finger postures aims to provide an independent learning experience through repetitive movements to strengthen or strengthen. This research has succeeded in making a real-time Color-Based Hand Gesture Recognition application for reliable Android devices. This is evidenced by applications that can function well in test scenarios with varying lighting and background conditions. Finally, students can learn the hand gestures of traditional Indonesian dances independently with ease. In addition, the application of the results of this research also contributes to becoming a learning medium in the current era of Blended Learning. Suggestions for future research are to increase the accuracy of Nyempurit and Ngithing attitudes.

Effects of square dance exercise on cognitive function in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment: the mediating role of balance ability and executive function

BackgroundSquare dancing is a kind of aerobic fitness exercise without environmental restrictions that yields many benefits for physical and mental health; this exercise is popular among middle-aged and elderly people in China and in these populations in other countries. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of square dance exercise on the overall cognitive function of elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and to research its mechanisms.MethodsA total of 60 elderly people with MCI (60–69 years old) without square dance experience were selected and randomly divided into an experimental group (n = 30) and a control group (n = 30). The experimental group participated in square dance exercise for 12 weeks, while the control group maintained their original lifestyle habits. One week before and after the intervention period, the overall cognitive function, physical fitness, and executive function of both groups were measured.ResultsAccording to the results, square dance exercise directly improved the overall cognitive function of elderly individuals with MCI and indirectly affected overall cognitive function through the mediating effects of balance ability and executive function.ConclusionsSquare dance exercise represents a nonpharmacological intervention for the prevention and treatment of MCI. Importantly, it is best to combine this exercise with other forms of physical exercise and comprehensive treatment programs such as cognitive training, social interaction, and psychological intervention to realize its maximum effect.

Electromyographic activity of core muscles in isometric pole dance exercises with thigh locks

There is little technical and scientific research on Pole Dancing — an artistic, sensual and sporting activity based on friction and opposition between the body and a bar. The objective of this study is to analyze and compare the electromyographic (EMG) activity of the rectus abdominis (RA), obliquus externus abdominis (OE), and erector spinae (ES) muscles during the execution of different isometric Pole Dance exercises using the thigh lock to fix the body on the bar in the vertical, horizontal and inverted positions (basic seat, plank seat, and inverted seat). Experimental study consisting of a convenience sample of ten female Pole Dance practitioners with more than one year of experience and physically active. The EMG signal obtained during all exercises was quantified in the time domain by root mean square (RMS) and normalized by maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). Data were collected using simple differential surface electrodes and analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance. The results showed a significant difference only for the ES muscle, which was higher for the inverted position when compared to the vertical and horizontal ones. The three exercises produced low to moderate EMG activity in the muscles analyzed. Therefore, these exercises can be prescribed both for Pole Dance training programs — its variations present interesting intensity progression — and for low back pain prevention, as they can improve trunk neuromuscular control.

In Reply to the Letter to the Editor Regarding: “Comparison of the Radiographic and Clinical Outcome Changes in Patients with Spinal Deformity Before and After Stretching Dance Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”

In Reply to the Letter to the Editor Regarding: “Comparison of the Radiographic and Clinical Outcome Changes in Patients with Spinal Deformity Before and After Stretching Dance Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”

Effects of an 8-Week Corrective Dance Exercises Intervention on Thoracic Hyperkyphosis, Scapular Position, Respiratory Function, and Happiness in Girls Aged 10-12Years.

This study examined the impact of an 8-week corrective dance intervention on thoracic hyperkyphosis, scapular position, breathing, and happiness in girls aged 10-12years. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental (EX) or control (CO) group. The intervention involved rhythmic and corrective movements conducted 3 times a week. Measurements were taken before and after the intervention for thoracic hyperkyphosis angle, scapular position, lung function, and happiness levels. EX showed greater improvements (P = .001) than CO for the decrement of thoracic hyperkyphosis angle (48.20-42.80°) than in CO (47.66°-46.59°), and scapular position improved more (P = .003) in EX (1.48°-1.20°) than in CO (1.44°-1.42°). Forced vital capacity (P = .001) and forced expiratory volume in 1second (P = .001) significantly increased in EX (FVC: 2.65-3.40L; FEV1: 2.32-2.74L), while they remained stable in CO. Happiness levels significantly improved (P = .001) in EX (42.20-49.79) and slightly decreased in CO (41.80-40.15). The 8-week dance program improved posture, scapular position, breathing, and happiness in girls aged 10-12years. It enhances physical health, emotional well-being, and social skills in children and adolescents.

THE ROLE OF CHOREGRAPHIC TRAINING IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ARTISTIC SKILLS IN 7-8-YEAR-OLD FEMALE GYMNASTS

The role of choreographic training includes an integral system of practice based on dance elements, ensuring an increased level of muscle work in various practice forms. The foundations of this school are classical and dance exercises are used according to a specific methodology. Most of the choreographic exercises are performed at the support bar, in the centre of the room, making extensive use of the reflective surfaces of the mirrors. The exercises performed at the support bar in most cases have a preparatory character, being performed in the preliminary stage according to some principles and rules that indicate the initial, intermediate and final positions of the movements, educating the specific particularities of organization and concretization of movement actions. Choreographic training in rhythmic gymnastics also implies a series of positions and exercises, performed with all parts of the body, including the head, arms, trunk, legs, etc.

Effects of Cha-Cha Dance Training on Physical-Fitness-Related Indicators of Hearing-Impaired Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

(1) Background: The physical fitness (PF) of hearing-impaired students has always been an international research hotspot since hearing-impaired students have difficulty in social interactions such as exercise or fitness programs. Sports interventions are proven to improve the fitness levels of hearing-impaired students; however, few studies evaluating the influence of Cha-cha (a type of Dance sport) training on the PF levels of hearing-impaired students have been conducted. (2) Purpose: This study aimed to intervene in hearing-impaired children through 12 weeks of Cha-cha dance training, evaluating its effects on their PF-related indicators, thus providing a scientific experimental basis for hearing-impaired children to participate in dance exercises effectively. (3) Methods: Thirty students with hearing impairment were randomly divided into two groups, and there was no difference in PF indicators between the two groups. The Cha-cha dance training group (CTG, n = 15) regularly participated in 90-min Cha-cha dance classes five times a week and the intervention lasted a total of 12 weeks, while the control group (CONG, n = 15) lived a normal life (including school physical education classes). Related indicators of PF were measured before and after the intervention, and a two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was performed. (4) Results: After training, the standing long jump (CONG: 1.556 ± 0.256 vs. CTG: 1.784 ± 0.328, p = 0.0136, ES = 0.8081), sit-and-reach (CONG: 21.467 ± 4.539 vs. CTG: 25.416 ± 5.048, p = 0.0328, ES = 0.8528), sit-ups (CONG: 13.867 ± 4.912 vs. CTG: 27.867 ± 6.833, p < 0.0001, ES = 2.4677) and jump rope (CONG: 52.467 ± 29.691 vs. CTG: 68.600 ± 21.320, p = 0.0067, ES = 0.6547) scores showed significant differences. (5) Conclusions: After 12 weeks of Cha-cha dance training for hearing-impaired students, the PF level of hearing-impaired students in lower-body strength, flexibility, core strength, and cardiorespiratory endurance were effectively improved; however, there was no significant change in body shape, upper-body strength, vital capacity, and speed ability.

Adapted Portuguese folk dance intervention for subacute rehabilitation post-stroke: study protocol.

Dance can be an innovative, well-accepted, and effective therapy for stroke survivors. The present protocol aims to assess the feasibility of adapted Portuguese folk dance as a post stroke rehabilitative activity. We will use a mixed-methods pilot study convenience sampling to recruit 16 stroke survivors with mild-moderate lower limb paresis from a rehabilitation center in Lisbon and Tagus Valley. In addition to usual care, participants will attend 3 days per week 1-h dance exercise for 8 weeks. The dance style used for this intervention will be an adaptation of the Portuguese folk dance. Assessment will be conducted before and immediately after the program intervention. Acceptability will be assessed by four key domains (enrollment, retention, satisfaction, and recommendation to others). Safety will be assessed based on the number and type of adverse events. Feasibility will be assessed based on balance performance and functional mobility. Quantitative data will be analyzed through descriptive statistics for sample characterization, followed by inferential statistics to evaluate differences in the balance recovery and functional mobility scores between the initial and final assessment. Qualitative data will be analyzed using an inductive process of content analysis. The Portuguese folk dance program has the potential to improve balance outcomes and functional mobility. Our results will help validate Portuguese folk dance as a tool for rehabilitation settings for stroke survivors. The potential of our program to enhance balance outcomes and functional mobility among stroke survivors bears implications for aging and public health initiatives. Positive results from this study could pave the way for integrating dance-based rehabilitative activities into standard stroke rehabilitation protocols, catering to older stroke survivors' specific needs and preferences.

Acute effects of exergaming on young adults' energy expenditure, enjoyment, and self-efficacy.

This study investigated the effects of a dance-based exergaming on Chinese college students' energy expenditure, self-efficacy, and enjoyment in comparison with the traditional aerobic dance exercise. Forty young adults (33 females; Mage = 21.55 years, SD = 2.06) completed two separate 20 min exercise sessions with 10 min intervals on the same day: (1) Xbox 360 Kinect Just Dance exergaming session; and (2) a traditional instructor-led aerobic dance exercise session. Participants' energy expenditure (Kcal/session) was measured by the ActiGraph GT9X Link accelerometers, and their perceived self-efficacy and enjoyment were assessed via validated surveys following each session. Dependent t-test indicated significant differences in participants' enjoyment (t = -1.83, p = 0.04). Specifically, participants in the dance-based exergaming session reported a higher level of enjoyment (M = 3.96, SD = 0.65) as compared to the aerobic dance session (M = 3.61, SD = 0.54). However, there was no significant difference in energy expenditure and self-efficacy between the two sessions. Findings suggest that college students had comparable energy expenditure as the traditional aerobic dance session while experiencing more fun and enjoyment. This suggests that exergaming can be a fun exercise alternative for promoting physical activity among young adults.