Dance the Distance events
Dance your way to 5k
Race for Life Dance the Distance® is an inspirational group fitness event that takes participants on a journey; experiencing different dance styles and a wide variety of music.
The event gives you the opportunity to dance your way to 5k, and you'll complete approximately the equivalent to running or walking 5km in steps and calories. It's a social and alternative way of fundraising with loads of other people.
You don't have to be a great dancer, so don't worry too much about that! The moves are simple, and taught by expert instructors. If you have got some moves, though, feel free to bring them along - you can head to the front row and strut your stuff!
As with all Race for Life events, you'll be uniting with thousands of others across the UK to join together in the fight to beat cancer, and you'll have your well-earned Race for Life medal at the end to show for it.
How does it work?
Dance the Distance is usually held in large sports halls or similar venues - safe from the Great British weather! It's best described as a great big group exercise class, with anywhere from 50 to 500 people taking part.
With Race for Life Dance the Distance, you can expect to be on the move for just over an hour with several breaks and rest stops.
The 5km is broken down into single kilometre blocks and we celebrate each one in style! There will be a variety of dance moves and music throughout - something for everyone from classic dance-floor fillers, through the decades and up to the present day.
Who can take part?
You don’t need to be particularly fit to take part in Race for Life Dance the Distance, but you do need to be able to move and dance in 10-15 minute blocks for over an hour in total.
If you do have any medical conditions, please check with your GP before entering.
Events are open to anyone aged 14 or over, including men. Anyone aged 14-17 must be accompanied by an adult. The adult doesn’t have to take part but must be on site.
Spectators are welcome at all events.
Dance the Distance® is a product of EMD UK, the national governing body for group exercise in the UK, so you can rest assured it’s a top-quality event with highly trained instructors looking after you.
Please note, for Race for Life Dance the Distance® events, your entry fee will be split between Cancer Research UK and the event organiser; EMD UK. All additional donations will be given to Cancer Research UK.
Race for Life Dance the Distance® takes place on Sunday 17 September 2017. The event itself starts at 10:30, but it is recommended that you arrive at 10:00.
No, the moves are simple and suitable for all abilities. Basic rhythm and coordination are an advantage, but if you dance at weddings and family parties you'll be fine!
No. You need to be able to move and dance in 10-15 minute blocks for over an hour in total. If you have any medical conditions, or are unsure, please check with your GP before signing up.
No specific training is required.
Once you've signed up, you'll receive a confirmation email. If possible, please bring this with you, either on your phone or printed, on event day. You'll be given a running number and backsign for you to fill in on the day.
Trainers (no ballet pumps!) and any comfortable clothing for exercising in. Pink is a must!
A water bottle, small towel and an extra layer of clothing for before and after are all recommended. Perhaps some change to grab a well-earned coffee afterwards!
The event is approximately equivalent in steps and / or calories to running or walking 5km, while the event generally takes an hour and a quarter in total. Everyone is different, so the exact distance you cover on the day may be more or less than 5km and will be different from the person standing next to you.
