In a context where sedentary lifestyle, stress and poor diet They affect millions of people around the world, an accessible and effective alternative gains prominence between medical recommendations: dance.
This activity, associated with leisure and cultural expression, is also a form of aerobic exercise with multiple benefits for the cardiovascular system.
This is highlighted by an article published by National Geographicin which official data and specialized opinions are collected that position the dance as a key tool to preserve the health of the heart.
Unlike the demanding career or cycling routines, the dance allows to maintain a healthy physical state without the need for marathons or specific equipment.
In addition, its social and playful character favors adhesion and continuity, fundamental aspects to obtain lasting benefits in cardiovascular health.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)cardiovascular diseases are main cause of death in adults In the United States, causing more than 800,000 deaths annualof which some 160,000 correspond to people under 65 years old.
In Spain, the situation is similar: Data from the National Statistics Institute (INE) indicate that more than 120,000 people die every year due to hearts of the heart and the circulatory system, representing approximately the 26 % of all deaths registered in the country.
In Argentinacardiovascular diseases continue to be main cause of deathrepresenting the 30.3 % of annual deaths due to defined causes.
According to the latest report of Vital statistics from the Health Statistics and Information Directorate (DEIS) of the Ministry of Health of the Nation.
The Argentine Society of Cardiology (SAC) warned that, despite medical advances, the Mortality for acute myocardial infarction (IAM) It is still high, reaching a 8,5 %according to data from Argentine registration of acute myocardial infarction (Argen-Ilam).
The cardiologist Dwayne Schmidtwith more than four decades of professional career, he argues that It is not necessary to run or ride a bicycle To improve cardiovascular health.
“The heart is a muscle, like any other in the body, and like any muscle, it needs to move to strengthen”, Declared a National Geographic.
With alone 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise per daysignificant improvements can be generated in heart function and the prevention of heart disease.
Aerobic exercise includes activities that increase heart rate and breathing in a sustained way, without causing immediate exhaustion.
In that group, practices such as swimming, rowing or trotting are included. However, dance offers Additional advantages for its emotional and social component.
The dance allows the heart to pump blood more effectively and favors the efficient use of oxygen by cells.
This type of coordinated movement not only strengthens heart muscle, but also Increase daily energy and contributes to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
Dancing regularly for half -hour sessions can allow burning up to 300 calorieseven surpassing activities such as swimming or moderate trot.
According to the article of National Geographicdance Improve the lipid profilesince it raises the levels of the call “Good cholesterol“(HDL) and decreases”Bad cholesterol”(LDL), associated with the accumulation of plates in the arteries.
In parallel, an effect on the emotional state occurs: the body releases Dopamine and endorphinssubstances that improve mood, strengthen mental health and They decrease stressa factor closely linked to cardiovascular deterioration.
Each type of dance offers specific characteristics that can enhance different aspects of cardiovascular health. The article of National Geographic He listed several highlighted modalities for its effectiveness:
- Zumba: Combine Latin rhythm with high intensity exercises. A study in the International Journal of Sports Medicine He revealed that after 12 weeks of practiceparticipants improved their general physical condition and they reduced their resting heart rate.
- Jazzercise: mixture of jazz, pilates and strength. Ideal for those looking for muscle toning and resistance.
- LaBlast: It incorporates salon dances such as the cha-cha, the meringue and the swing. Works body and mind simultaneously.
- Barre/Ballet Fitness: Combine classic ballet techniques, yoga and low -impact cardiovascular exercises.
- Bollyx: inspired by the choreographies of Indian cinema, it contributes to improving the Coordination and vitality.
- Goat: It does not require choreographies, since it is danced “drawing” letters and numbers with the feet, based on African rhythms.
- Hip Hop Cardio: focused on increasing the physical resistance through high -energy urban movements.
In the article of National Geographic It is recommended Start with brief dance sessions and progressively increase its intensitytreating it as a training that includes warming, stretching and constancy.
Those who have medical conditions or cardiac history should consult a doctor before starting the practice. The exercise must adapt to the individual conditions and be carried out safely.
