What is it?

Four couples form a square and execute steps dictated by a caller. The calls used are entirely at the discretion of the caller, who may try to challenge the dancers. All calls give you a location to move to. There are no prescribed dance steps for your feet. If you can walk, you can square dance.

The many benefits can be grouped as physical, mental and social.

Physical benefits:

Square dancing is a low-impact aerobic activity.
Dancers typically travel 3 to 4 miles per evening, burning 300 to 800 calories.
It strengthens weight-bearing bones and slows loss of bone mass. It provides cardio-vascular conditioning.
The balance and range of motion required provides good physical therapy. Regular square dancing typically adds 10 years to a dancer's life span.

Mental Benefits:

Square dancing is an activity that keeps your mind working. Initial studies show this mental stimulation may retard senility It keeps you young.

Social Benefits:

Every dance is a party.
There is often a theme, such as Hawaiian Night, or 60's Hippie Night.
Snack food is always available at no charge.
Square dancers are particularly friendly people.
They form a supportive social network.

What about the music? Is it country western?

Some callers are partial to country western music, but most use a wide variety. At a typical dance you might hear songs from Elvis Presley, Shania Twain, Savage Garden, the Beegees. or even classical music.

What about the clothes? Are boots and petticoats still worn?

You can wear them if you want to, and many do, at least on occasion. You're also welcome in prairie skirts or jeans or polo shirts, or just about anything. Shorts would be a rare exception, and it's difficult to dance in tight clothing that restricts movement. Just remember that this is a family activity.

Who are the square dancers? Is there an age minimum?

Everyone is welcome at the dances. There are a few dancers in elementary school and a few in their 90's. It's an activity families can do together. It's a good activity for singles and for couples, too. Right now the majority of dancers are empty-nesters, but the Omaha Area Square Dance Council hopes to reestablish the teens club soon. The only requirement is that the dancers learn the basic calls first.

How do you learn the basic calls?

The square dance clubs in town offer lessons. Some begin lessons approximately every 12 weeks. Other clubs begin lessons whenever someone approaches them and asks for lessons. The first lesson is always free, and sometimes the first two lessons are free.

Can I just watch first, to see what square dancing is like?

By all means come and watch us have lots of fun. Guests and spectators are always welcome and free of charge at every dance. To find the dances, call the recorded message at 691-8155, or check the website: www.squaredancene.org.

How many basic calls are there?

It depends on how you count, but there are about 75 calls needed for mainstream square dancing.

Is square dancing competitive?

There is no competition, just fun dancing with friends and having a good time.