In collaboration with the Physiotherapy team at Guy’s Hospital and specialist dance practitioner, Stella Howard, Breathe Dance exercises were carefully graded to move participants from the chair, to the barre, to standing unaided over a 10-week course. Partner and group work was embedded throughout to encourage bonding, increase confidence, and build trust amongst participants. The class was accompanied by specifically selected music which aimed to motivate patients and add to a creative and fun atmosphere.
.Please note: Funding for Breathe Dance for Strength and Balance programmes previously delivered in Guy’s & St Thomas’ have sadly ended. If you are interested in funding this programme please contact [email protected]
NHS patients were offered the choice of attending our dance classes or a standard physiotherapy course as part of their treatment, giving them an alternative approach and element of control over their own healthcare pathway.
Results from our programme showed significant improvements to clinical outcomes, psycho-social measures and a positive impact on health and wellbeing.
Our research findings:
- 74% of participants saw a significant improvement in their Timed Up and Go (TUAG) assessments.
- 80% of participants saw an increase in their gait (walking) speed.
- 100% of participants said it was an enjoyable experience, many noting the fun and encouraging group atmosphere contributed to the overall success of the class.
- 92% reported a positive impact on their experience of the healthcare environment.
Comparing the dance classes to the regular strength and balance programme, the clinical referring team described it as a ‘distinctly different and collaborative atmosphere’. Data shows that the use of dance movements can increase motivation to engage with the exercises, and participants tell us the incorporation of music with movement make the activity feel more ‘meaningful’.