Effects of Ballroom Dance on Physical Fitness and Reaction Time in Experienced Middle-Aged Adults of Both Genders

Ballroom dance practice might play a pivotal role for successful aging, but its effects could differ depending on dancers' experience level. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of six months of ballroom dance (three times/w) on physical fitness and reaction time (RT) in 24 middle-aged adults who are experienced dancers (age: 59.4 +/- 11.6 years). Body composition, handgrip test (HG), standing long-jump test (SLJ), step test (ST), one-legged stance balance test (OLSB), and RT were assessed before (T-0) and after six months (T-6) of dance practice. RT was re-evaluated four months later (T-10). RT was significantly (p < 0.05) lower at T-6 (221.2 +/- 20.3 ms) and T-10 (212.0 +/- 21.9 ms) than T-0 (239.1 +/- 40,7 ms); no significant differences were found between T-6 and T-10. No significant differences were observed for all the other parameters between T-0 and T-6: weight and muscle mass were significantly lower (p < 0.01) in females than in males, and percentage of fat mass was significantly higher (p < 0.01) in females than in males. HG was significantly higher in males than females (p < 0.01). Results suggest that in experienced middle-aged adults of both genders, ballroom dance may positively influence RT, and this result could be maintained for four months.