Quick Escape 
June is Senior’s Month in Ontario, and this year’s theme has been Fit, Active and Healthy Seniors. YWCA Hamilton’s Active Living Centres offer a wide range of activities for adults who are 55+ to keep active and build community.
One of the most popular activities offered through the Ottawa Street Active Living Centre recently has been line dancing classes! Line dancing is a low-impact, social and accessible form of dance that brings people together through simple, choreographed steps to a wide range of music – from country and pop to Latin and R&B. Line dancing is done in rows with everyone facing the same direction, making it easy for newcomers to join in and follow along.
Our popular instructor for the Friday morning class, Zandra McCallum, says that line dancing’s repetitive patterns make it an ideal activity for people of all ages and skill levels. Almost every weekend, line dancing classes are being offered at community hubs, breweries, and festivals across Hamilton.
Zandra explains that for older adults, line dancing offers a variety of benefits. It can improve balance, coordination, and overall physical health while also helping with memory since you have to memorize the steps to the dances.
Just as importantly, joining these classes also helps combat social isolation by offering a space to connect with others in a supportive, energetic environment. Many of the participants in this class head out for a coffee together after class finishes so they can keep chatting. When asked about what brings her to this class in particular, one participant said, “I take Zandra’s class at a different Centre too and just love her teaching style. She is so patient, and gives each of us attention when we need it. And I love the ladies here – we have a little community now.”
Line dancing isn’t just great exercise – it’s a powerful way to connect, share laughs, and build lasting friendships in your community. If you’re looking for fun, welcoming spaces to stay active and meet new people, reach out to us at to learn more about joining our exciting programs for adults 55+ at our MacNab and Ottawa Street locations.
Contact MacNab Street – 905-522-9922 ext. 173
Contact Ottawa Street – 905-522-9922 ext. 541