New dance programme launches to help more Edinburgh communities live well in winter
A weekly online dance and wellbeing programme is helping more people with Parkinson’s and other long term health conditions to live well in a fun and social way across the UK in the autumn and winter months.
Delivered by national exercise and wellbeing provider, Bounceback Exercise, the online dance classes are designed to be an accessible way for anyone living with Parkinson’s to enjoy an active lifestyle.
No previous experience of dance or exercise is required and all abilities are welcome to join, plus relatives and loved ones are also welcome to take part.
The classes are delivered by Steph Still, an experienced dance teacher, professional dancer and MSc in Clinical Exercise Science, who delivers a fun and friendly online workout for people with Parkinson’s.
Beth Boxall, Founder at Bounceback Exercise, said:
“Delivering the online dance programme has meant that we can offer even more opportunities for people to lead active lifestyles with Parkinson’s.
“Each online class is designed to be easy to follow and accessible, and I’m delighted to see how it’s already supporting people to be active with the condition.
“As we approach the autumn and winter months, my hope is that even more people living with neurological conditions will be able to take advantage of the programme and feel the benefits of dance.”
Steph Still, Dance Teacher at Bounceback Exercise, said:
“Dance can be a really expressive and creative way for people to live well with long term health conditions.
“I’m really pleased to be able to teach the new online dance classes for people with Parkinson’s, and I hope that many more people will be able to take advantage of the offer.
“Whether you’re a seasoned pro, or you’ve never danced before, our group is really welcoming and I would encourage everyone to give our class a try.”
Sue lives with Parkinson’s and has recently started the online dance programme. Speaking about participating in the classes, Sue said:
“I only joined 'Dance with Steph' about 4 weeks ago. At first I wasn't sure whether it would be suitable for me but after just a few minutes in my first class I was hooked!
“I look forward to Mondays at 5pm and put a 'Do not Disturb' sign on my spare bedroom door! I thoroughly enjoy every class and would recommend to others without a doubt”
How dance can help people to live well with Parkinson’s
Dance is shown to have many physical and wellbeing benefits for people with Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions. These can include:
Better strength, balance and mobility
Improved coordination
Reduced risk of falls
Better flexibility
Improved sleep and increased energy levels
Increased feeling of wellbeing and mindfulness
For more information about the dance classes, contact admin@bouncebackexercise