Over-60s having the time of their life at “Feisty Feet” dance classes
<p>The New Zealand Dance Company (NZDC) launches its weekly dance programme for seniors tomorrow. The “Feisty Feet” dance classes are tailored for people ages 60 and up, and run every Wednesday at Pt Chevalier and Blockhouse.</p>
<p>Ruth, 73, was part of the successful pilot programme last year, and can’t speak highly enough of the dance classes.</p>
<p>“Firstly, I love this programme and I’m going back this year,” Ruth tells Over60. “The classes are so empowering – which I think is what the course is about.”</p>
<p>“Whoever thinks about themselves in their 70s, or well into your 80s, dancing?” adds Ruth, chuckling a little.</p>
<p>But that’s exactly what the Feisty Feet programme is trying to show (to the wider public and older people themselves) – dancing has no age limits; in fact, it has a multitude of benefits for over-60s.</p>
<p>NZDC seniors dance teacher Kerry-Ann Stanton says, “I enjoy bringing the joys of movement to people in their older age. Dance has been shown to have a positive influence on people, such as a reduced risk of dementia, reduced stress and depression, providing increased energy and serotonin.”</p>
<p><img width="419" height="628" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/33454/jose-cano-141210-mobility-536-edit_419x628.jpg" alt="Jose Cano 141210 Mobility -536-Edit" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Ruth (right) dancing with teacher Kerry-Ann. </em></p>
<p>Ruth, who had an achilles tendon operation two years ago, thought her dancing days were over. The programme has given her a renewed vigour and confidence in life.</p>
<p>“Nobody cares if you do the right steps. There’s no mistakes here, which is what many of us need. It’s made us confident,” says Ruth. “It’s so great and empowering.”</p>
<p>Everybody is encouraged to attend the classes, no matter your level of dance ability (no dancing experience is required) or physical mobility.</p>
<p>“No one should feel like they can’t dance. Because the whole thing is tailored so you can do it,” says Ruth.</p>
<p>Kerry-Ann caters to every person in the class and offers alternative options so everybody can dance – and more importantly, enjoy themselves.</p>
<p>“Kerry-Ann is very empathetic with our needs. But everyone rises to the occasion. At the start you think you’ll die on a routine, but then you find you can do it,” says Ruth.</p>
<p>For Ruth, it’s not just the dancing she enjoys, she loves meeting new people and making new friends in the classes. </p>
<p>“We come from different backgrounds but because we’ve worked together in class and danced together, we have gotten to know each other,” says Ruth.</p>
<p>There’s really no reason to not give the program a go.</p>
<p>“It’s fun, it’s fitness, it’s exciting – just give it a go,” Ruth states.</p>
<p><strong><em>When: Weekly on Wednesdays 22 February – 16 August 2017</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em> Where: Two different locations and times available:</em></strong><br /><strong><em>10 – 11 am Wednesdays, Subud Hall, 19 Formby Rd, Pt Chevalier</em></strong><br /><strong><em>1 – 2 pm Wednesdays, Blockhouse Bay Senior Citizens Hall, 524 Blockhouse Bay Road, Blockhouse</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em> Parking available and on good bus routes</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Cost: $10 per session or $85 for 10 sessions</em></strong><br /><strong><em> To enquire or book, please phone Kerry-Ann on 027474 5003 or email <a href="mailto:yep@nzdc.org.nz" target="_blank">yep@nzdc.org.nz</a></em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Find more information at, <a href="http://nzdc.org.nz/feisty-feet" target="_blank">nzdc.org.nz/feisty-feet</a>. </em></strong></p>
<p><em>Photo credit: Jose Cano</em></p>
<p><strong>Related links: </strong></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/11/robyn-lee-on-learning-new-things-in-retirement/"><em>You’re never too old to learn</em></a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/11/10-seniors-who-shatter-ageist-stereotypes/"><em>10 seniors who shatter ageist stereotypes</em></a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/12/megan-giles-on-how-to-have-a-super-life-in-retirement/"><em>How to have a super life in retirement</em></a></strong></span></p>
