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16 | OHCC LIVING | FEBRUARY 2026 | As we welcome 2026, many of us are embracing New Year's resolutions, often focused on healthier habits, new activities, and a renewed sense of motivation. Fortunately, we have a fun and accessible option right here at OHCC: Line Dancing! If you joined us for the free beginner class on Jan. 13, you've already had a taste of the energy, joy, and healthy challenge line dancing offers. Dancing in any form is like a "superfood" for overall well-being. It gets the heart pumping, sends more oxygen to the brain, and provides the added benefit of social connection. And it's not just wishful thinking — research supports these benefits. Even for those experiencing age-related movement limitations, line dancing has been shown to improve balance, strength, endurance, gait speed, and confidence in mobility. Bennett and Hackney (2018) studied 23 older adults (ages 65–93) with mobility limitations. Participants were assigned either to an eight-week line dancing group or a standard care group. Those in the dance group learned simple beginner routines and were assessed at the start and again after eight weeks. Results showed significant improvement in lower-body function, endurance, gait speed, and self-reported mobility — all from just two months of dancing. The researchers concluded that line dancing supports both cognitive and physical health, can be enjoyed socially, and may help reduce fall risks by improving balance. Study Reference: Effects of Line Dancing on Physical Function and Perceived Limitation in Older Adults with Self-Reported Mobility Limitations. Bennett, C. & Hackney, M. Disability & Rehabilitation (2018), 40(11), 1259–1265 (Atlanta VA Medical Center & Emory University School of Medicine) Class Schedule & Fees: Level 1 (Beginner) Tuesday 10:30 - 11:30 am, $5 Level 2 (Improver) Monday 12:30 - 2 pm, $7 Level 3 (Advanced) Tuesday 12 - 1:30 pm, $10 New participants are welcome! You may attend two classes (at the listed class fee) before deciding whether to become a club member. For questions or more information, please contact Drora Oren, (801) 673-0140. Written by Jane Pimentel, Line Dance Club Publicity Director Line Dancers Behind the Scenes: Life in Our Dance Troupe When the lights go up and the music starts, the audience sees polished routines, confident smiles, and powerful movement. What they don't see is the hard work, laughter, and teamwork that happens long before we ever step onto the stage. A typical rehearsal for our dance troupe begins with everyone arriving from different parts of their day, Pickleball, Mahjongg, meetings or just a walk outside. It's also a time to check in with one another, share a few laughs, and get focused. But once the music starts, we move as one. Rehearsals are not always perfect. Steps are forgotten, timing goes off, and sometimes we have to repeat the same section again and again. But those moments are where growth happens. Dancers encourage one another, offer tips, and celebrate small improvements. Mistakes aren't something to be embarrassed about — they're part of learning. Behind the scenes, our troupe is about more than dance. It's about commitment, trust, and supporting one another. Friendships are built during water breaks, and long rehearsals before performances. These shared experiences create a bond that carries onto the stage. By the time the audience applauds, they are seeing the result of many hours of practice, teamwork, and dedication. While the performance may only last a few minutes, the memories and lessons gained behind the scenes last much longer — and that's what truly makes our dance troupe special. ~ Karla Sando, President Ocean Hills Dance Troupe