“Easidance”
- continued from page 1 amateur ranks. We got together and had a successful tryout for a month and took it to our coaches, who liked it. We then formed a professional partnership. We continued to train and study under our coaches in the U.K. and compete in the European circuit.” In their early twenties, an opportunity arose for Timothy and Michele to embark on a four-and-a-half-year contract in New York City to work in one of the leading studios in Manhattan. They began competing in the American circuit as well as the European circuit. By the time the couple retired from competitive dance, they had ranked second in the U.S. and eleventh in the world. A professional partnership and friendship turned to love, and
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the couple married in 1994 and moved to the Tampa Bay area. In 1999, they retired from competing, though continued to travel, doing shows, coaching, judging, and lectures. As they wanted more control over their travel schedule, they decided to open a dance studio on Gunn Highway in Tampa, then settled into their permanent Carrollwood location four years later. From six years old to millennials to business people, retirees, and professionals looking for trainers, Easidance Ballroom caters to ages and all experience levels. Timothy and Michele take pride that whether learning competitive dance, a choreographed first wedding dance, a dance to feel comfortable on the dance floor, or simply an opportunity to socialize with like-minded dance enthusiasts, everyone is treated like family. Thirty-three five-star Google reviews attest to “top-notch
instructors and an atmosphere second to none.” “We teach all levels of dance – people who are wanting to have a new hobby, maybe a date night for some, and competitors. We offer it all at the studio,” he said. “There are so many benefits of dance, not just the joy that brings to people. Some people are dancing for fitness. They come to us and say, ‘I can’t do the treadmill thing and the bike. I love music, and I want your ballroom studio to be my gym.’” Ballroom dancing is as physical as going to the gym; however, less stressful on the joints and muscles. Dancing can also be healing in those who have dementia and has been prescribed as part of therapy. Because Ballroom dancing is mentally challenging as it requires listening and problem-solving, studies have found that this challenge to the mind may prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s in
older adults. Because ballroom dancing involves precise physical activity, listening to the beats in music, remembering dance steps, and taking a dance partner into account, it is mentally stimulating. “So many articles have come out proving how it is an effective form of exercise physically and also psychologically. Studies have come out showing how in later years it is successful in keeping seniors’ minds active with the thought of learning to dance, step patterns, and coordination – aside of the physical complements that it has.” Ballroom dancing is not a solo experience. It requires communication and teamwork and helps build friendship bonds and a sense of community. Much like the owners themselves, romantic relationships have been born from holding hands and consciously listening and responding to the moves of your dance partner.
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