Dancing beyond exercise: young people's experiences in dance classes

Authors: Gardner, Sally May¹; Komesaroff, Paul²; Fensham, Rachel³

Source: Journal of Youth Studies, Volume 11, Number 6, December 2008 , pp. 701-709(9)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

Dance classes in urban settings may have a role in health-promotion programmes seeking to increase physical activity amongst young people. However, little is so far known about the motivations, experiences or health outcomes of those participating in dance classes. This qualitative study of young people attending recreational dance classes addressed motivations, the nature of the class experience, and implications for health and well-being. Data show that young dance participants' experiences of 'the physical' are embedded in social, community/cultural or other values, and involve respect for older teachers and physical knowledge/expertise gained over the long term. Encouragement of dance-class participation may offer an important strategy for health promotion as long as the physical activity value of dance classes is not promoted in narrow, bio-mechanical terms.

Keywords: young people; physical activity; dance classes; health

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/13676260802393294

Affiliations: 1: School of Communication and Creative Arts, Deakin University, Burwood, Melbourne, Australia 2: Centre of Ethics in Medicine and Society, Monash University, Australia 3: Dance Studies, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK

Publication date: 2008-12-01

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