At Salford Community Leisure, dance isn’t just about movement to music; it’s about connection, confidence, and community. Whether you’re taking your first tentative steps or reliving your favourite moves from years gone by, there’s a place for everyone in our studios. From gentle sessions that focus on fun and friendship to energetic routines that get the heart pumping, our accessible dance classes offer options for everyone. With options including Dance 4 All and Dance Through the Decades, our classes prove that movement to music truly is for everybody. These adult dance classes are suitable to all levels of fitness and mobility. No previous dance experience is needed; just a willingness to move, make friends, and enjoy the beat.
Dance 4 All is a low to medium-intensity class that combines both seated and standing dance routines. It’s designed for anyone who loves music, or wants to dance, but doesn’t want to overdo it. This class is perfect for those looking to stay active at their own pace.
This feel-good, light-hearted class blends a range of dance styles, steps, and songs to create a fun, social environment where everyone can move in a way that suits them.
Assistant Dance Development Officer Anika describes the difference these classes make:
“These classes mean so much to the people that attend them. It’s not just about the movement and the dancing; it’s about that social side and getting out of the house.”
That social connection is definitely the highlight for many participants. People come for the exercise, but they stay for the friendships, the laughter, and the uplifting atmosphere. As one regular shared,
“I love this group. I look forward to it every week…We have such a good time and a laugh”
Our Dance for All classes show that physical ability or mobility challenges doesn’t have to be a barrier to participation. The sessions are adaptable, allowing everyone to move comfortably, whether seated or standing.
“A lot of the ladies in our Dance 4 All Classes have had medical issues or injuries recently.”
Anika says
“But, they still come here. Yes, to dance, but also for that social aspect. To have a laugh and a good time. It’s so much more than dancing.”
For many, it’s a safe, supportive way to regain strength, confidence and flexibility. They may start the class as a means to exercise, but soon discover that moving to music can be both empowering and healing.
One participant reflected on her progress so far:
“I’ve been coming for the past few months. I’ve previously had two knee replacements and two hip replacements. It’s helped me come along loads and I really enjoy coming.”
These sentiments are echoed across the group. While each dancer has been on their own journey, everyone shares in the same collective energy. What makes Dance for All special is that it celebrates being together and sharing in the joy of movement. It’s not about focusing on limitations. Every step, stretch, and smile counts.
For those who enjoy a slightly more rigorous workout, and perhaps a touch of nostalgia, Dance Through the Decades offers another joyful way to get moving. This medium-intensity class takes participants on a musical journey from the swinging sixties right through to today’s chart hits, celebrating the best songs, steps, and dance styles along the way.
Many participants say Dance Through the Decades has become a highlight of their week. One regular, Doris, who first joined through Salford Community Leisure’s Can Move cancer rehabilitation programme, shared:
“I started off with Can Move on a Friday. That was about ten years ago, and I’ve never stopped coming. I can’t begin to tell you what a difference it has made. What it was like before I came. You meet people, have a laugh! It’s a social thing as well as exercise. These classes are the best thing ever.”
It’s clear that Dance Through the Decades is as much about friendship and laughter as it is about fitness. Members often arrange to meet outside of class too, whether that’s going for a spontaneous lunch together or planning festive get-togethers.
Doris said of the community built through Dance Through the Decades;
“One of the ladies organised for us to go for a pub lunch. It was absolutely brilliant. We’re definitely doing it again; we’re getting geed up for Christmas at the moment, you see!”
Every class feels like a celebration; of music, movement, and most importantly, each other.
Or, as Doris put it:
“It’s absolutely perfect. I love them all.”
The benefits of dance go far beyond physical fitness. Dancing helps improve balance, coordination, and mobility, but it also strengthens memory, boosts confidence, and enhances mental wellbeing. Moving to music releases endorphins. This helps reduce stress and lift your mood; making dance it one of the most enjoyable ways to stay active.
Classes like Dance 4 All and Dance Through the Decades create spaces where people can move freely, share laughter, and build friendships that extend beyond the dance floor.
It’s small moments; a shared laugh over a tricky step or a chat with a coffee after class, that make these sessions so special. As one long standing member puts it,
“It’s not just about keeping fit. It’s about enjoyment, socialising, getting out the door. It does so many things for you.”
At Salford Community Leisure, everyone is welcome to dance, no matter their age, ability, or experience. Whether you’re rediscovering your favourite songs in Dance Through the Decades or enjoying an inclusive, light-hearted workout in our Dance 4 All sessions, there’s a class for everyone who wants to move, smile, and connect.
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