Dance to Your Own Beat

By Alison Cardoza Photos By Matt Johnson 

Dance is the one cardiovascular endurance exercise that has the ability to distract you from the rest of the world. The second you start thinking of your grocery list, you quickly are distracted from the next steps in the routine. Dance engages various brain functions like procedural memory, rhythmic processing, and spatial awareness, which contribute to cognitive function and better memory. Some studies have shown that it actually may reduce the risk of dementia. Dancing engages the core, challenges your balance and coordination, all while reducing the stressors of everyday life. Dance can be considered aerobic and anaerobic. Aerobic involves continuous rhythmic movements that keep your heart pumping! Anaerobic is also incorporated in certain dance styles. Anaerobic builds strength and power, and incorporates holding a pose like a lunge or squat in a dance, or incorporates quick bursts of energy in the routine! 

There are many dance classes in Louisville. Dance studios offer various styles of dance including ballroom, ballet, jazz, and tap, and creative movement. Wellness Centers and gyms offer dance classes like Zumba, hip-hop, and ballet. 

At Baptist Health Milestone, a variety of dance classes are offered. Hip Hop is taught by Alison on Thursday evenings; ZUMBA is offered by Paula on Mondays and Wednesdays. On Fridays ZUMBA class is taught by Gail. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays Just Dance is taught by Jane. 

Hip hop offers a fun variety of moves with upbeat music. Drs. Pk and Sara Cherian have been taking Alison‘s hip hop for years. It is a way to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and explore the creative side from within. “Alison’s choreography is not only energetic and creative, but also delivers an outlet and an aerobic workout. What truly sets Alison’s class apart is her teaching method. She strikes a perfect balance between encouragement and offering corrections. Thank you very much for creating such a vibrant and fun environment,” says Pk and Sara. “I love Alison’s hip hop class. I have been taking it ever since she has been at Milestone. She is a phenomenal dancer and instructor. It makes me feel energized and younger every Thursday night. I forget I am 55 and in the midst of menopause,” says Vikki. 

Just Dance is a staple at Milestone. After nearly 20 years, members are still pouring into this exercise dance class, which offers a variety of cha cha, swing, and salsa dance steps, all designed for fitness, flexibility, and balance. “A member once said that her doctor praised her for taking the Just Dance class and credited her quick recovery and good health because she was dancing,” says instructor, Jane. 

Zumba Fitness is a fun, high-energy workout that combines dance and aerobic movements to upbeat music. It helps improve cardiovascular health, enhances coordination, and boosts mood by making exercise feel like a party! Gail and Paula are excellent instructors that inspire and keep the energy up in every class! “I love Zumba because it makes me feel alive and lively. It’s fun and as a group we all laugh and socialize at Zumba dinners. We are known as zumbets. It’s a group thing that is really good for you,” says Ellen. “I love my Zumba class at Milestone! It is so fun and a great way to improve cardio fitness. The instructor Paula and the others who attend are so friendly and inviting. No matter what your fitness level, all can participate and enjoy,” member Sandra says. 

Clients and instructors develop healthy relationships with each other, hold each other accountable, and the members encourage one another to keep pushing! Dancing is a way to let loose, have fun, and get your heart pumping! Step outside your comfort zone, and try a dance class today! 

Alison Cardoza, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor. BS Exercise Science and Sports Medicine with a minor in Health Promotions from University of Louisville. Former UofL Ladybird and NFL Colts Cheerleader.