There is still a belief that "real" physical activity is planned: gym, personal training, running with an app. Meanwhile, our body does not distinguish between exercising on a training mat or on the dance floor to the rhythm of our favorite song. What matters is movement, muscle engagement, cardiovascular and respiratory work. Dancing fits this definition perfectly. It is a form of spontaneous activity that does not require equipment, special skills, or a "sporty" attitude. All you need is music and the desire to move, and the rest happens naturally.
In the context of dance, the question of calorie burning often arises. However, it is worth looking at this more broadly and without the pressure of numbers. Every movement expends energy, and the more dynamic the dance, the more energy the body consumes.
• is not associated with "obligation"
• does not generate stress related to the result
• helps to naturally increase daily activity
These types of exercise are the easiest to maintain in the long term, and regularity is much more important than a perfectly planned but rarely performed workout.
Does dancing affect your figure? Yes—though not in a magical or immediate way. Regular dancing:
• supports muscle function
• helps maintain physical fitness and flexibility
• promotes better weight control as part of an active lifestyle
Importantly, dancing does not put as much mental strain on you as a restrictive approach to diet or training. There is no "punishing" yourself for eating or counting down the minutes. There is movement that builds a relationship with your own body based on pleasure, not control.
One of the greatest benefits of dancing is its effect on well-being. Music, movement, and contact with other people promote the release of endorphins—hormones that improve mood and reduce tension. Dancing helps relieve stress, take a break from everyday responsibilities, and return home feeling lighter—not only physically, but also mentally. From the perspective of metabolic and hormonal health, this is extremely valuable. Less stress means better regulation of appetite, sleep, and energy throughout the day.
Carnival parties are a great opportunity to look at physical activity differently. No sporting ambitions, no training plans, no judging. Dancing does not have to replace the gym, but it can be a great complement to it, or the first step towards a more active lifestyle.
1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/lets-dance-rhythmic-motion-can-improve-your-health-201604219468
3. https://www.acefitness.org/about-ace/press-room/in-the-news/8244/the-surprising-health-benefits-of-zumba-healthline/srsltid=AfmBOoqWGIUddNTMAvFSmGC4HAmW2J11Sj7XTz52T3eRHbZ2IbLl9X76
4. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-and-physical-activity/health-benefits-exercise-and-physical-activity
Prepared by: Justyna Kurasz
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