News: "Let's Dance!" Events Coming Up in McIntosh, Long and Chatham Counties

July 7, 2008
Tired of the same, old exercise routine? It might be time to try dancing your way to a healthier lifestyle.

That’s why the Coastal Health District, the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health, and Wellcare will sponsor “Let’s Dance!" events this month in Long, McIntosh and Chatham Counties. The next event is scheduled for July 17th in Long County (see below for a list of upcoming locations, dates and times). The day of free dance demonstrations and classes is being offered to encourage dancing as a legitimate form of exercise and to teach people about the importance of cardiovascular health.

“For too many people, exercise feels like a chore,” said Cristina Gibson, Director of Health Promotion & Disease Prevention for the Coastal Health District. “We all know we should exercise, but it can be hard to stay motivated to climb onto a treadmill. Add a busy schedule, and exercise often gets marked off the ‘to do’ list.”

But dancing can be a lot of fun – and a great form of exercise.

“If you’re feeling burned out on the traditional exercise routines, start dancing,” said Gibson. “You get your heart rate up, your body moving, but it doesn’t feel like hard work. It feels like fun.”

Heart disease is the number one killer of American women. According to the American Heart Association, nearly 500,000 women die each year of cardiovascular disease. But regular exercise (including dancing), a healthy diet, and controlling your blood pressure can greatly reduce your risk.

The celebrations will feature performances and instruction by local dance groups. The events will also include blood pressure screenings by the local health department, information on the signs and symptoms of stroke and heart attack, healthy snacks, Body Mass Index measurements, and a blood drive sponsored by the Blood Alliance. Visitors will also receive details about dance opportunities through local network of dance organizations and have the opportunity to win door prizes including an MP3 player and dance instruction videos.

For more information, please call 912-484-1885.

"Let's Dance!" Events:

Let's Dance, Long!
July 17th, 10AM-2PM
Long County High School Cafeteria
→ Download event flyer

Let's Dance, McIntosh!
July 19th, 10AM-2PM
Preferred Outlets, next to the Reebok Store
→ Download event flyer

Let's Dance, Savannah!
July 26th, 10AM-2PM
Center Court, Savannah Mall
→ Download event flyer

WWW Address: http://www.gachd.org/news/lets_dance_events_scheduled_in.php