Have Fun Exercising – Square Dance

Have Fun Exercising – Square Dance

Are you bored with your exercise routine? Try square dancing.

“I never thought exercising could be so much fun,” says Terri Lowder, a retired teacher who along with her husband Dennis has been a member of the Square Benders dance club for three years. “Square dancing is not just an aerobic activity, but keeps us mentally alert when reacting to calls. It also gives us an opportunity to socialize and make new friends.

Square dancers like to use the word “modern” when referring to their form of dance. Even though it is the official folk dance of the United States, square dancing has evolved by using new calls and music from Golden Oldies to current hits. And traditional square dance clothing is now an option as many are choosing to wear current fashion.

In addition to exercising both body and mind and socializing, square dancers cite other benefits, such as the low cost for dances (averaging five dollars). Square dancing is also “universal,” occurring in all parts of the world. Dances are always called in English and follow the same patterns. Many dancers seek out clubs on their vacations for the opportunity to dance and meet people from another area or country.

All ages are welcome at square dances. Some dancers continue dancing well into their 80’s and even 90’s. They credit square dancing with helping them to keep fit and active.

“Square dancing is never boring,” Terri Lowder comments. ‘My husband and I took lessons to learn the basic steps and then decided to learn more at the plus level. We hope to also learn round dancing, which is similar to ballroom dancing, but done simultaneously in a circle while responding to a “cuer.”

The Square Dance Association of Wisconsin, SDAW, holds an annual convention in a different region of the state. A national convention is also held annually. The Southeast Area of Wisconsin, SEA, includes nine clubs dancing at different times during a month. For more information call 262-820-9161.