Parkinson's patients benefit from the tango

A recent study divided Parkinson's patients into two groups. One group took a basic exercise class, while the other took tango lessons. After 20 lessons, both groups had improved their mobility. But the tango class also showed a greater improvement in balance than the exercise group. Researchers believe that several aspects of the tango may have been beneficial to the group, including walking backward and moving at different speeds.

Not only did the tango class improve their balance, but dance class participants reported a better quality of life. Though some were initially nervous about learning to dance, they came to enjoy the social aspect of their therapy routine.