Is dancing an effective intervention for fat loss? A systematic review and meta-analysis of dance interventions on body composition

by Yaya Zhang, Zhicheng Guo, Yin Liu, Yongxu Zhou, Longjun Jing

Objective

The systematic review aimed to review the research on the effects of dance interventions, relative to normal lifestyles, on body composition in people with overweight and obesity.

Methods

7 databases were searched from their inception to 3 July 2023 for studies with dance interventions and normal lifestyles groups. Only studies investigating dance interventions in people with overweight and obesity(body mass index (BMI)>24kg/m2 and percent fat mass (Fat(%)) abnormal(male>20%, female>25%)) were included in the meta-analysis. There were no restrictions on dance forms.

Results

654 studies were identified from the databases, and 10 studies were evaluated to be eligible. The meta-analysis revealed that compared to normal lifestyles dance had meaningful improvements in body mass(BM), BMI, waist circumference(WC), Fat(%), and fat mass(Fat(kg)). No significant differences were found in the waist-to-hip ratio(WHR).

Conclusions

Dance is effective on fat loss in people with overweight and obesity, and has a significant improvement on body composition and morphology. For its high efficiency and greater sense of enjoyment, dance can be a beneficial exercise intervention for fat loss.

Impact of visitation restrictions on the mental health of family caregivers during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A mixed methods study

Abstract

Aim

To examine the mental health conditions of family caregivers residing away from their loved ones who experienced visitation restrictions during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Design

A mixed-methods design applying the Kessler Scale-10 for the quantitative measurement of psychological distress and an open-ended question for qualitative analysis.

Methods

The participants were recruited from care facilities between February and September 2021. This cross-sectional study included 197 family caregivers who were utilizing formal residential care services for their loved ones. Using thematic analyses, open-ended responses regarding the impact of visitation restrictions were coded. These themes were then examined to determine thematic patterns across caregiver characteristics.

Results

Thirteen themes were identified regarding the impact of visitation restrictions. Many participants reported primary harmful effects as follows: ‘inability to confirm the type of care and lifestyle assistance provided to an older relative’ and ‘difficulty communicating with an older relative because of the inability to converse face-to-face’. Younger age, being employed, poor sleep, poor relationship quality with the care recipient and experiencing harmful effects from the visitation restrictions were associated with psychological distress.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that to maintain positive mental health after a care transition, it is important for family caregivers to take part in the care of their loved ones and ensure information sharing between the care recipient's family and institution.

Impact

These findings suggest that both residents and family caregivers living outside facilities may feel distressed due to separation. Therefore, institutional care staff needs to consider how to adjust facility procedures or communication with family caregivers.

Patient or Public Contribution

The comments obtained from the participants in this survey helped to shape the study design and are expected to contribute to the further development of quality facility care.