Dance improves memory skills: provides exercise

As the music plays, they move in sequence to the rhythm.

When the song is over, the women clap and laugh.

This happens every Tuesday at the Golden Hour Senior Center during the line dancing program. The class takes place from 9-10:30 a.m. every Tuesday, however, the group will take off the next two weeks for Christmas.

"I came to get a smile on my face," class attendee Becky Strong said.

Lila Seyersdahl, who teaches the class, makes sure the class has a variety of music and dances to choose from. On Tuesday, the class danced to the waltz, two-step and cha cha.

Prior to beginning, Seyersdahl runs through the steps with the group. When the music starts to play, Seyersdahl will call out which foot they are supposed to be on and which direction they need to go.

The songs also range in tempo, from fast to slow and anything in between.

While dancing, most of the class sing along with the song.

Seyersdahl used to square and round dance, but got into line dancing because it didn't require another person.

"It's real good exercise and a lot of fun," she said. "It teaches them rhythm."

Seyersdahl said she makes sure the steps are easy because she is working with the elderly. For example: their senior version on "Boot Scootin' Boogie" is a lot less movement than the version kids dance to.

Not only do the participants get exercise, but they improve their memory skills because they need to remember the moves from week to week and which songs the moves go to.

Although the class is comprised of women, there is always room for men.