Dancing in the dark could have benefits for health and wellbeing

The peer-reviewed study, published in BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation, surveyed 1190 participants across 52 No Lights, No Lycra locations over a one week period in 2018.

The research team found the top reasons for attending were to “have fun,” “improve physical health and fitness” and “improve mental health and wellbeing.”

People enjoying NLNL — Photography by Abi Varney

When asked about the benefits of attending, 95 percent of participants agreed it improved their physical health and 97 percent agreed it improved their mental health.

This is particularly significant considering half of those surveyed reported being diagnosed with depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions. Women’s education, work, home life and caring responsibilities have a huge impact on their participation in physical activity in middle age. The latest research in this area tells us that programs which are safe, flexible and enjoyable — like No Lights, No Lycra — are the most likely to attract these women and encourage physical activity.

Dance is particularly interesting as while we know participation is high in young girls, they often stop participating in dance and other physical activity as they get older due to cost, time commitment, focus on technique, mirrors, tight-fitting clothes and lack of enjoyment.

Summary of findings

• 88 percent of participants did not achieve recommended 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity five days a week
• No Lights, No Lycra made up 23 percent of the participants’ overall physical activity
• 50 percent of the participants reported a medically diagnosed mental health condition
• 20 percent reported a chronic physical health condition
• 95 percent reported participation improved their physical health
• 97 percent reported participation improved their mental health

More needs to done to encourage sport and physical activity opportunities that motivate and engage inactive Australians. Focusing on supporting people to be active in everyday life, in ways they enjoy is critical if we are to help build a healthy and active community. If you enjoy something, you are more likely to keep doing it.

Originally published at https://www.sydney.edu.au.