Veteran broadcaster Angela Rippon has said it is “never too late” to take up dancing, highlighting its role in supporting people to age in good health. Speaking in central London at the launch of the Let’s Dance campaign, the 81-year-old stressed that dancing can play a valuable part in maintaining physical strength and independence later in life.
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Rippon explained that dance can help reduce the risk of falls among older people by strengthening the core, improving balance and coordination, and building leg strength. She noted that ageing does not have to mean becoming frail, adding that many people can continue activities they enjoyed in their 50s and 60s, with dance offering an accessible way to stay active.
The campaign was inspired by Rippon’s appearance on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2023, where she became the programme’s oldest contestant at the age of 79. Since its launch, more than 22,000 dance teachers have taken part, hosting sessions in community centres, studios, dance clubs and hospitals to encourage people of all ages to get moving together.
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Let’s Dance is supported by organisations including the Sport and Recreation Alliance, the NHS and Parkinson’s UK, and has received backing from Health Secretary Wes Streeting. The initiative is due to take place on 8 March, the UK’s national day of dance, with a focus on both physical health and mental wellbeing.
