Time to take the floor...

A bit like at New Year, in autumn thoughts often turn to what to do through the winter now that those outdoor activities are no longer so attractive. This is the time that various local dance groups restart, welcoming back regulars but also inviting newcomers, beginners, and those who ‘used to dance but haven’t for years’ wondering if it might be fun.


By Mary Goulder

Well yes, it is! And not just fun but it’s good for you too. Youngsters dance at the drop of a hat; those of us who are older might need some encouragement. The benefits of dancing are widely available with just a little research. They obviously include physical exercise for muscles and bones, but also mental health and wellbeing as the whole body is involved from the brain to the toes. Studies consistently note that regular dancers show better functional ability, flexibility, endurance and balance. The medics tell us that the impact of energetic steps has a preventative effect on osteoporosis, and there’s an overall lowering of risk of cardiovascular disease. Psychological benefits kick in too, boosting mood, confidence, reducing anxiety and depression. Adding to all that is that dancing is the best activity to ward off dementia. The social contact plays such an important part, and some of our groups even have tea and cake intervals!


Based in Bonar Bridge and Ardgay are several options offering different styles of dance at different times of day. All groups provide friendly instruction and encouragement. Some have live musicians to play for both practice and full dances. No experience is needed. If you decide to carry on after your first session or two you may choose to buy appropriate shoes but ordinary footwear will be fine to get you started. No partners are needed for any of the local groups but of course you can take one along if you have one.



Appalachian steps


Tuesdays see an Appalachian Step Group in Bonar Bridge Community Hall at 2.15pm for one hour. The group uses basic Appalachian steps but incorporates moves from tap, Scottish, Irish for variety, often devising new routines. £2 a session. Contact Mary: 07540 146390.



Ballroom, Latin, Sequence & Line dance


In The Hub a little later on Tuesdays you can try Ballroom, Latin and Sequence dancing from 3.30pm – 5.30pm. In the evenings on alternate Tuesdays there’s a Line Dance or Latin Fit class 6.30pm -7.30pm. Take in each style or go weekly if you’re up for it. Book for these classes via The Hub on 01863 769170. Afternoon class £8. Evening £5.



Scottish Country Dancing


Wednesdays - Ardgay Scottish Country Dancing Class runs in Ardgay Hall from 2pm-4pm. Experienced dancers are always on hand to help the beginners. Taster session will be on 30th September with regular sessions starting in October. £3 per session. Contact David: 01863 766061.



Jive


A little further afield in Evanton on Wednesday evenings you can find a lively Jive class in the newly upgraded Diamond Jubilee Hall. The classes are divided into Absolute Beginners at 6pm, Beginners at 7pm and Improvers at 8pm. £7 per session (first one free). Contact Steve: 07840 090038.


Ceilidh dance


Fridays – In Rogart there is a long established Ceilidh dance group in the village hall. Restarts on 25th September at 7.30pm. £2 per session. A social group of dancers is always willing to take newcomers through dances which you will often encounter at a wedding or local ceilidh. £2 per session. Contact Monica: 07769 715277.


At every one of these groups you will find a warm welcome, laughter and good craic. For further details contact me on goulder4929@gmail.com or 07540 146390.
We’re looking forward to meeting you.