Over 50s Ballet Tauranga

Matariki for Tamariki – A Whānau Adventure Tuesday 30 June, 6pm

One reason we all love going to our ballet classes as older women.

Menopause is often discussed in terms of symptoms and limitations. Yet, emerging research suggests dance may be one powerful way to support both physical and emotional health during this stage of life. 💃

A new systematic review and meta-analysis found that dance interventions significantly improved:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Vitality
• Interpersonal relationships
• Somatic symptoms

…in perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal women.

Interestingly, benefits were seen even when dance sessions occurred fewer than 3 times per week. Researchers also noted that dance combines movement, music, social connection, coordination, and emotional expression… all of which may contribute to its effects.

While more research is still needed, studies like this continue to support something many dancers already know: movement is not just exercise. It can also be medicine for the mind and body.

Ballet (and dance more broadly) isn’t only for the stage. It may be a lifelong tool for health, resilience, and wellbeing. 🩰

Want to learn more? The link to the full article is in the comments!

Happy Mother's Day to all the incredible women, who bring grace, strength, and beauty to the ballet barre! Whether you are just starting your journey, a returning dancer rediscovering your passion, or a devoted "Dance Mum/Grandma" supporting the next generation, you are the true artists of life.

BEGINNER 5 WEEK INTRO COURSE STARTING 19th MAY. Email or message for more info.

Although a small study it’s still evidence that ballet is extremely beneficial for women over 50.
Don’t wait…… Just start!

Can ballet really help you stay strong and balanced as you age? 🩰

This study looked at women over 50 who participated in a 10-week classical ballet program, and the results are pretty compelling.

Participants showed significant improvements in lower body strength, measured through functional movements like sit-to-stand and even a forward leap. There were also improvements in balance (specifically on one leg), and (maybe most importantly) a 95% adherence rate.

That last point matters. A lot of traditional exercise programs struggle with consistency, but ballet? People actually stick with it. No injuries were reported either.

From a science perspective, this highlights something really important: The best exercise isn’t just what works in theory… it’s what people enjoy enough to keep doing long-term.

Ballet combines strength, coordination, flexibility, and motor control in a way that challenges the body and engages the mind. And this study suggests it may be a powerful (and enjoyable) option for maintaining physical function as we age.

⚠️Of course, this was a small, single-arm study, so we need more research (like randomized controlled trials) to fully understand the effects. But it’s a promising step!

Have you ever tried ballet as an adult?