Get Out Get Active and drum your way to improved wellbeing

If you’ve ever wanted to try drumming or dancing, Sunshine Coast Council’s new Healthy Sunshine Coast Get Out Get Active African dance classes are for you.

The dance program designed specifically for women and girls caters for all levels of fitness and will start on January 13, 2018.

Since the launch of Healthy Sunshine Coast program in 2016, thousands of people across the Coast had experienced the benefits of improved health and wellbeing and now women and girls who are looking to be more active can also enjoy the benefits of feeling better and gain more energy.

Community Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said the award-winning program had been boosted by State Government Get Out, Get Active funding.

“We have had a great response of the new Get Out Get Active program with some programs booking out within days,” Cr McKay said.

“They are designed to motivate, inspire and support women and girls so they feel the health and social benefits of taking part in physical exercise.

“We have included sessions such as Africa Dancing which was about having fun and letting go in a supportive and inclusive environment and participants don’t need to be fit as a fiddle or be coordinated to join a class.”

Rhythm Culture Sunshine Coast program coordinator Bec Mount said the group has been delivering drumming, singing and dancing on the Sunshine Coast for years.

“We are now proud to be partnering with council’s Healthy Sunshine Coast Get Out Get Active program,” she said.

“African dance is all about moving your body, having fun and learning to hear rhythm.

“It incorporates lots of stepping, wide arms, big movements that encourage isolation and patterns within the body,” she said.

“The first thing that will be introduced in a West African dance class will be the drum.

“This instrument traditionally leads, accompanies and calls all of the dancing feet.

“Dancers will be introduced to this call and will learn to respond to a call rather than counting while dancing.

“These classes are for lovers of dance, music and for those that want a fun workout.

“Some of the benefits from African dancing include a wide range of emotional and physical health benefits, allows the body to build strength and flexibility and a great way to improve memory and coordination.

“All fitness levels are welcome and our African dance classes will be delivered in a friendly environment.”

To register and download the Get Out Get Active timetable and to view the full Healthy Sunshine Coast program, visit council’s website and search Healthy Sunshine Coast.