Pat McDougal looks forward to her husband’s twice-monthly Kickin’ Country Dance lessons because they have so much fun together. Every few weeks, the couple teaches a different kind of dance, ensuring that everyone is always learning something new.
They dance a two-step at times and line dance at other times. Pat stated that pattern partner dance is her favorite type of dance because of the connection she has with her partner and the other dancers in the room.
“It’s really fun when everyone gets into it and is smiling and sort of cheering,” she said. “We all are in such a good mood when we leave the dance floor at the end of the night.”
Pat and Dean, of the Village of St. James, said they’ve been dancing together since 1991 and couldn’t have asked for a finer partner. They teach people of various ability levels, so even complete beginners can benefit from dance.
“It’s great for your mind because you’re working your memory,” Pat said. “Dance keeps you mentally healthy as well as physically because you’re making your brain work.” Pat considers dancing to be one of the most important aspects of her physical fitness.
“I dance a few times a week, and those few hours a week on my feet keep my heart healthy and help with managing weight,” she said. “For me, it’s more fun than being on a treadmill because the music and dancing don’t make it feel like a workout.”
The McDougals collaborate with a second couple, Sandy and Lew Olson, to conduct the class, and the two groups alternate as primary instructors.
This allows the partners to enjoy teaching while also allowing them to dance without having to stop for directions or assistance.
“But we always sort of end up helping out,” Pat said. “We can’t really help it.”
Pat and Dean taught together, although Dean taunted that it was his wife who was in charge.
“She’s the one who always knows what’s up,” he laughed. “I just dance along with her.”
The McDougals mostly see the same people that come to class on a daily basis.
The Bradenton Recreation Center hosts Kickin’ Country Dance on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month at 6:30 p.m.