Line dancing gets toes tapping

If you’re looking for a foot-tapping, body-moving, music-filled good time, look no further than the Custer Senior Center and its line-dancing classes.

Line dance instructor Rachel Nepper started teaching the class in 2008 after the center’s director approached her about teaching it to a group.

“There was an instructor at the Hill City Senior Center, so I went there and she taught me the steps,” Nepper said. “I’ve never line danced before, but I got into it.”

A few months later, Nepper began teaching it at the Custer Senior Center, where a good crowd usually turns out for the two classes. The first class, for intermediate dancers, begins at 9 a.m. on Fridays while beginners have their class at 10 a.m.

“The intermediate level is a little faster pace music and a few more steps,” Nepper said. “Those in the beginner class aren’t really beginners, they just dance to slower music. They’re really good.”

The classes aren’t just open for members of the center, but for anyone in the community.

“We have a teacher who comes and dances sometimes,” Nepper said. “There’s a variety of people. The best part is meeting others — the social aspect.”

“I feel it brings a great level of socialization for anyone, men or women,” said Jill Kettle, director of the Custer Senior Center. “It brings people together and lifts everyone’s spirits.”

The classes are not only good for socialization, but also provide a number of health benefits. An hour of dancing can help with diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure, balance and stamina. The good music doesn’t hurt, either.