Dance as a Supplementary Instrument for Cardiac Rehabilitation

Abstract

Intrinsic socio-cultural and motivational dance aspects, physical demands,general and styles characteristics, may promote positive influence on cardiac rehabilitation programs development and progression, if dance is approached as a supplementary activity and resource for cardiac patients. The aim of this study was to conduct an integrative literature review to evaluate dance as a supplementary activity on cardiac rehabilitation, considering physical demands, dance socio cultural aspects and regular practice related effects on cardiac patients' health and quality of life. Classical ballet and modern dance are not supported by this revision as appropriated alternatives to improve cardiovascular capacities for cardiopaths However, belly dance, ballroom dance, emphasis on Samba, Samkya showed multiple positive effects: glycemia levels reduction, resting heart rate reduction, cholesterol (HDL, LDL) and triglycerides level regulation, BP reduction, cardio respiratory increment and body relaxation.