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.