Science Backs Sophie Ellis-Bextor: Kitchen Discos Boost Health Benefits

Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s Kitchen Discos Boost Health, Study Reveals
By Xantha Leatham, Deputy Science Editor
Published: 20:02 GMT, 16 February 2025 | Updated: 23:09 GMT, 16 February 2025

[IMAGE: Sophie Ellis-Bextor hosting a lively kitchen disco during lockdown.]

Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s viral “Kitchen Disco” sessions during COVID lockdowns did more than lift spirits—they might have sparked a fitness revolution. New research shows dancing at home for just 20 minutes daily can meet weekly exercise guidelines, rivaling gym workouts or jogging.

Science Backs the Dance Floor
Adults are advised to get 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise weekly. A study presented at the American Association for the Advancement of Science conference in Boston found that freestyle dancing—whether in kitchens, living rooms, or staircases—achieves this goal. Researchers analyzed 48 participants aged 18–83, including both novices and seasoned dancers, as they danced freely with and without music.

[IMAGE: Participants dancing in a study; heart rate monitors visible.]

Using heart rate and oxygen intake measurements, the team found all participants reached moderate intensity levels. Dancing to music elevated heart and respiratory rates further, aligning with workouts like aerobics or swimming.

“Just Dance” Works
Lead researcher Dr. Aston McCullough of Northeastern University explained: “People reached health-enhancing activity levels without being instructed. Dance is accessible, fun, and effective.” He added that dancing often includes aerobic and resistance elements, boosting heart health, flexibility, and longevity.

[IMAGE: Sophie Ellis-Bextor celebrating her Kitchen Disco anniversary with cocktails.]

Lockdown Legacy
Ellis-Bextor, 45, launched her livestreamed discos in 2020 to combat pandemic isolation. The concept—now a Radio 2 show—proved enduring. This study confirms its hidden benefit: a living-room dance party can burn calories, improve mood, and reduce disease risk as effectively as traditional workouts.