20 November 2008Edenbridge residents can get themselves into shape in the new year by trying out a whole host of new dance styles thanks to a unique class in the town.
The Strictly Dance Funk class runs for an hour every Friday morning at 10.30am at Edenbridge Leisure Centre, and offers participants a chance to learn a number of dance techniques including salsa, hip-hop, latin dancing and many more.
The sessions are for people of any age or ability and cost £2, with free crèche facilities available for those with young children.
Cllr Felicity Broomby, Sevenoaks District Council's Cabinet member with responsibility for healthy living, says: "The great thing about these dance classes is the variety they offer. With so many different types of dance to chose from there is something for everyone to enjoy, from beginner to experienced dancer!"
Strictly Dance Funk is a healthy lifestyle initiative co-ordinated by Sevenoaks District Council in partnership with Sencio Community Leisure and funded by West Kent Primary Care Trust as part of the Choosing Health agenda which aims to make healthy choices easier.
The class is run by a professional dance teacher from Pure Dance, and everyone is made to feel very welcome. There is no need to book your place on the class, however crèche places are limited and need to be booked in advance by calling 01732 865665.
For more information on the class please contact Layla Powell, Choosing Health Co-ordinator by calling 01732 227121 or by e-mailing healthyliving@sevenoaks.gov.uk
CASE STUDY
One of those who has benefited from the Strictly Dance Funk class is 36 year old Karen Loveland, from Edenbridge, who has attended the class since it started back in September last year.
"I had been going to the EZ STEPZ hip-hop class on a Tuesday for a couple of years when I noticed a poster for the Strictly Dance Funk class and thought I would give it a try." says Karen. "I'm really glad I did as it is tremendous fun, and without a doubt has made a difference to me, as I have so much more energy and feel much fitter now."
The difference has been noticed by Karen's five children as well, she says, "For years I couldn't keep up with the kids when we played games or had races as I just didn't have the energy, but the other day I had a race against one of them and I beat him! I don't think he could believe it, but they all love having a more active mum who can join in with them. My friends have also been amazed at the difference the class has made to me."
For Karen the class is not just about keeping fit, "The great thing about this class is that you don't need to be a fantastic dancer. The group is really easy going and everyone enjoys themselves so much that we are all firm friends now."
"For just £2 a week the class represents fantastic value for money," Karen adds, "We learn a new dance routine every week and get to try out lots of different styles of dancing as well. The free crèche is a godsend too, there are a few of us that use it for the Friday class, and it really means there is no barrier to prevent me from going each week."
So what would Karen say to anyone thinking about going to the class? "I'd tell them to come along! The class is fun, you meet new people, and you get fit all at the same time - what more could you want!"
