Whether it’s dancing, stretching, or even just walking, frequent movement does wonders for the body.
From relieving stress to building confidence, simple everyday physical activity is the recipe for a happier and healthier life.
And frequent, sustainable physical activity isn’t just for the young and energetic. ABC’s docuseries Keep on Dancing follows nine older Australians who take on the challenge of mastering a dance routine over 12 weeks, exploring the power of dance — and movement — for those over 65.
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Sure, there are fantastical pirouettes and awe-inspiring lifts. But even if you’re not a professional dancer, nor keen on wearing sequins under stage lights, Keep on Dancing reminds us of the joy and vitality that come naturally with motion. The best part? It’s something everyone can do. Here are four reasons to sneak more movement into your day — no choreography required.
1) Boosts Physical Health
The math is simple: Movement keeps your body humming. A little daily activity gets your heart pumping, muscles strong, and joints flexible. It even lowers your risk of heart disease and diabetes. But here’s the thing — you don’t need a gym membership or a punishing workout plan. Keep on Dancing shows us that leaping across a stage — or, let’s be real, just dancing around your kitchen — counts too. Think of movement as maintenance for your body. Like brushing your teeth, only way more fun. The more you move, the better your body feels. And what’s not to love about that?
2) Elevates Mood and Reduces Stress
Notice how a short walk clears your head? Or even how a silly dance in your living room instantly makes you smile? It’s not a coincidence; it’s science. Movement releases endorphins, your body’s natural ‘happy hormones’. At the same time, it lowers cortisol (aka that pesky stress hormone). The good news is that, unlike the dancers on the show, you don’t necessarily need a spotlight to do the same. A few minutes of motion can turn a bad day around faster than scrolling through memes on your phone.
3) Strengthens Social Connections
Moving with others makes life better. Whether it’s a dance class, a weekend hike, or just a walk-and-talk with a friend, shared movement creates instant connection. On Keep on Dancing, the camaraderie between performers is half the fun — they cheer each other on, pick each other up, and celebrate together. All you need to do is grab a buddy, join a class, or invite someone to dance around the living room with you. Movement done in company doesn’t just make exercise more fun — it also forges bonds that are as good for your heart as the workout itself.
4) Builds Resilience and Confidence
There’s a secret superpower in moving regularly: it makes you tougher. Each time you push through a challenge — whether it’s nailing a new dance step, holding a plank longer, or lifting heavier — you’re proving to yourself that you can improve. That breeds resilience and confidence. Keep on Dancing is full of contestants who stumble, recover, and come back stronger. Honestly, isn’t that the point? Movement teaches us how to show up for ourselves repeatedly. Even the tiniest wins add up to a stronger body, a steadier mind, and the kind of confidence that carries into everyday life.
Conclusion
Keep on Dancing reminds us that movement is the biohack we’ve all got access to: it energises the body, lifts the mood, and connects us to others. After all, what better way to celebrate being alive than dancing, gliding, and walking through life with joy?
This unique experiment sees a group of over 65’s attempt to slow the effects of aging through dance.
View DetailsImages: Unsplash (Luemen Rutkowski, Byward Outfitters, Elianna Gill), All © Australian Broadcasting Corporation.