Fig. 82.—Combination of dance steps. First position.
Fig. 83.—Combination of dance steps. Second position.
Fig. 84.—Combination of dance steps. Third position.
Fig. 85.—On the toe tips.
The freedom given by such dancing softens the crude awkward positions so universal among young people; the general carriage invariably improves as the head goes up and the shoulders go back; a more elastic tread and an easier propelling of the body in walking is gained. Not only is the chest broadened and deepened, and fat removed from waists and hips, and weak backs strengthened, but students gain in quickness of perception, coördination, and judgment, as well as in agility and power to keep their feet in correct rhythm.
Esthetic dancing is particularly recommended in all factories, stores, and schools where there are any large number of girls and women as a recess exercise, because in this way they get a great deal of vigorous exercise in a very short time. It brings all the large muscle groups into action, causes a rapid circulation of the blood, aërates the lungs, and it affords the best possible sort of a contrast to their monotonous and cramped positions; it is most exhilarating and it is good fun. It is an excellent mental tonic and physical invigorator; it brightens the day, and enables the women to do better work.
FIGURES OF THE DANCE WITH SOME SIMPLE EXERCISES