According to scientists from the University of Sydney (Australia), dancing may have a more positive effect on mental health than other forms of physical activity.
To find out, the researchers analyzed data from people of different ages – from 7 to 85 years old, with various health conditions, including chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, heart failure, cerebral palsy and fibromyalgia, writes ridus.ru.
The effects of dancing on mental health were compared with those of other types of physical activity, such as team sports, martial arts, walking and indoor weight training. The study found that dance was either equivalent to or more effective than other types of physical activity in improving emotional well-being, motivation, social understanding and memory, as well as reducing symptoms of depression.
Dr. Alicia Fong Yang, lead author of the study, noted that these results were observed in both older and younger populations, as well as people with clinical illnesses. She also added that many people are aware of the health benefits of physical activity, but may not realize that dancing can be an effective alternative to standard exercise such as running or working out at the gym.
Source: Rosbalt
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