How ballet helps these seniors keep their bodies – and brains – feeling young
Canny Chan, 68, and Mary Chan, 82, expected physical benefits when they took up ballet two years ago. The cognitive benefits were a surprise
At 66, Canny Chan laced up her first pair of ballet shoes, chasing a childhood dream to dance like a prima ballerina. Two years later, the Hong Kong retiree can effortlessly glide through basic routines and move gracefully to music – a proud physical feat in itself. But what most surprised her was not her improved flexibility; it was the sudden sharpness of her mind. She never imagined that the dance form would help her think and feel better, too.
“Not only has my overall physical form and alignment improved; I also feel more focused and alert,” shares the former banker.
“While dancing, we have to stay mindful of every single finger, the position of our arms, the placement of our feet and the control of our spine, shoulders and abdominal muscles, all while memorising the choreography. So besides challenging my body, doing ballet has been like putting my brain through an intensive workout.”
The retiree credits twice-weekly ballet classes with playing a big part in helping her age more healthily. Like Canny, she has noticed a boost in her cognitive function and physical strength.