Physical Inactivity, COVID-19, and the Future of Global Health. Is Dancing the Solution?

Dan Tao¹, Yang Gao^1, , Feifei Li¹, Wei Liang¹, Jiao Jiao¹, Wendy Yajun Huang¹, Rashmi Supriya¹ and Julien S Baker¹

¹Centre for Health and Exercise Science Research, Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, 999077, China

Cite this paper:
Dan Tao, Yang Gao, Feifei Li, Wei Liang, Jiao Jiao, Wendy Yajun Huang, Rashmi Supriya and Julien S Baker. Physical Inactivity, COVID-19, and the Future of Global Health. Is Dancing the Solution?. Journal of Physical Activity Research. 2022; 7(1):7-9. doi: 10.12691/jpar-7-1-2

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to stimulate debate and raise awareness of the increased physical inactivity problems during and post the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper initially outlines the detrimental effects of inadequate physical activity and suggests reasons for the decreases observed during the pandemic. Further to this, the paper then examines the potential benefits of dance as an alternative/addition to participation in physical activity. Also, the paper discusses the beneficial effects of dance on physiological and psychological parameters and implications for health benefits and social engagement. We hope that the contents of this paper will invigorate individuals and physical activity providers, to consider dance as a viable alternative/addition to traditional physical activity.

Keywords:
dance physical inactivity psychological benefits physiological benefits global perspectives

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