Tinton Falls Community Finds Unique Way to Socialize and Exercise

By Julia Boyle
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

The overhead lights glisten off the wooden dance floor as the music begins. Couples take their partner’s hands and begin to step in time. ONE-twothree, ONE-two-three. Tonight they dance the Waltz.

This group does not meet at the local dance studio. They are not professional dancers. They are a small group of residents at Seabrook who meet from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Wednesday and Thursday evening to share their interest in ballroom dancing.

“We get together, we show up, we bring our own music, and we dance,” says Arlene Schacht, an avid ballroom dancer. “It’s terrific exercise, and we enjoy it,” she says.

Although the group is small (five to 16 people) they find ballroom dancing is a way to meet friends, share a common interest, and get some not so run of- the-mill exercise and entertainment.

Social Dance
Ballroom dancing has long been known as “social dance” because it encourages social interaction between dance partners. At times in history it has been an integral part of people’s daily lives. Although this may no longer true, ballroom dancing is an ideal social climate to meet people and learn a new hobby.

Arlene ran a dance club at Seabrook for two years, but because few people attended the events it evolved into simply a gathering of people who like to dance. She met her current dance partner, Russ Holt, at one of the club events. They have been an active dancing pair ever since.

Dancing for Health
The social benefits of this traditional pastime are only one side of the coin. Russ has been dancing over 15 years and sees significant health benefits. “It’s very enjoyable, and it’s very healthy. The way we dance, it’s really good exercise. We really move!” he says.