Dance-Based Balance & Strength Class | Maryhill 💃

Join our lively dance-based falls prevention class designed for reasonable mobility levels! 💃 This faster-paced weekly session combines strength and balance movements in a friendly, supportive environment at Mornington Presbyterian Church.

Class Details:

• 1-hour sessions including seated, standing and walking movements
• Led by specially trained Peer Leaders from Age Concern Otago
• Suitable for those who can walk independently with average strength and balance
• Only $3 per session
• Located at 16 Maryhill Terrace, Maryhill, Dunedin

What to bring: Flat shoes, comfortable clothes and a water bottle. Rest breaks encouraged as needed.

To book or enquire: Contact Margaret Dando QSM at 03-479-3052 or margaret@ageconcernotago.co.nz

Why Dance-Based Exercise Benefits Older Adults 🧠💪

Dance-based exercise programmes like Aligned to Go offer unique benefits for older Kiwis looking to maintain independence and prevent falls. This innovative approach combines the joy of movement with practical strength and balance training.

Designed by Matthew Onarheim-Smith, an ex-professional dancer and osteopath, the Aligned to Go programme has shown impressive results. A 2023 preliminary study found participants achieved significant improvements in lower-leg strength endurance and both usual and maximum walking speeds after just 10 weeks.

Dance-based exercise is particularly effective because it:

• Improves coordination and spatial awareness
• Enhances cognitive function through learning movement patterns
• Builds confidence in everyday movements
• Creates social connections that support mental wellbeing
• Makes exercise enjoyable and sustainable

While primarily designed for those 65+ or at risk of falling, this class welcomes anyone seeking to improve their functional mobility in a supportive group setting. The combination of seated, standing and walking exercises ensures participants can gradually build confidence while working at their own pace.