Wheelchair Dancing

Wheelchair dancing is a partner dance where at least one of the dancers is in a wheelchair. The physical benefits include better balance, flexibility, range of motion, coordination, and respiratory control — all of which keep the body fit and functioning. The psychological benefits come from social interaction and the friendships that grow from it, building a support network and a real sense of belonging.

We had the opportunity to talk with Ms. Wheelchair America 2016, Dr. Alette Coble-Temple, about the benefits of dancing for wheelchair users.

Ivan: Tell me a little bit about yourself.

Dr. Coble-Temple: I am a licensed psychologist. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology and teach at JFK University. Currently I’m Ms. Wheelchair America, and part of what I’m working on is teaching people how to live successfully with a disability. I’m traveling the country — today I’m in Tampa, and this is my sixteenth state.

Ivan: How long have you been using a wheelchair for mobility?

Dr. Coble-Temple: I was born with cerebral palsy and have been in a wheelchair since the age of four.

Ivan: Did you ever dance, or wish to dance, in a wheelchair?

Dr. Coble-Temple: I love to dance. As a kid I used to be jealous — I couldn’t take ballet or tap classes. But my brother and I used to dance around our house, in the pool, everywhere. As I got older, I figured out you can dance even in a wheelchair.

Ivan: We at Dance Passion teach people to dance in a wheelchair. Maybe in a little bit we can try it.

Dr. Coble-Temple: Excellent.

Ivan: I don’t think anything can stop you. If you have the passion, and you’re willing, and you love it, then nobody can stop you.

Dr. Coble-Temple: That’s right.

Ivan: Do you think there’s a benefit behind dancing for people in a wheelchair? What would the benefit be for you?

Dr. Coble-Temple: There are many benefits. Obviously physical exercise for the body, and greater flexibility and range of motion. Plus, I think the more important benefit is psychological and social — dancing spans cultures, it brings people together, it makes you socialize, and emotionally it releases endorphins that make you feel better about who you are as a person.

Ivan: That’s correct. It improves coordination, too. And believe it or not — if you can dance in a wheelchair, everything in everyday life gets a little easier. I completely agree with you.

Dr. Coble-Temple: I think everyone should get out and dance.

Ivan: I think so, too.