Wheel-N-Deals hosts free open house

For the first time ever, Wheel-N-Deals Square Dance Club will be hosting a free open house as well as an ice cream social to entice new dancers on Thursday, Sept. 5 at Dunbar Recreation Center, 801 MLK Dr.  

The open house is meant to introduce anyone to square dance — no prior dance experience needed — and will be held from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The guests are invited to stay around for the ice cream social and watch experienced dancers show off their skills from 7:30-9:30 p.m. 

People of all ages are encouraged to join in this fun and healthy pastime in a smoke and alcohol-free environment. Square-dance lessons begin Sept. 12 and continue weekly (barring holidays) through mid-January from 6:30-8 p.m. at the same location.  

Attendees should dress comfortably. Refreshments are provided at club events and the donation for the duration of the lessons is only $40 for Adults (less than $3/lesson); ages 10-17 are free with an enrolled adult.

Square dancers begin by learning “mainstream,” which consists of 65 different moves. All you need to know is your left from your right and move as directed by the caller. Each move is simple and does not require any prior dance experience.

In 1991, Texas joined 18 other states in naming Square Dance as the official state folk dance. This form of dance is enjoyed worldwide and called in English. Thus, even in Japan, you can square dance. You can travel the world and encounter square dancing in many countries. 

And square dancing has great health benefits. Strong scientific evidence indicates a dance-based exercise program can improve aerobic power, muscle endurance of the lower extremities, muscle strength of the lower extremities, flexibility, static balance, dynamic balance and agility, and gait speed. For those who need to boost your step count, you’ll find that it's easy to go well beyond 5,000 steps after one evening of square dance.

Dancing’s benefits also extend to mental health. Dance move sequences improve listening skills as well as enhance cognitive performance.

Line dances, two-steps, waltzes, and so much more are offered at the club.

For more information, visit the Wheel-N-Deals' website. Wheel-N-Deals Square Dance club has been dancing in San Marcos for 48 years and is sponsored by the San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department.

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