5Rhythms: what the research says

5Rhythms itself is untested. Dance and exercise may lift low mood; evidence for stress and wellbeing is limited.

What a session is

A guided movement practice created by Gabrielle Roth. A teacher leads the group through five rhythms (flowing, staccato, chaos, lyrical and stillness) to music; there are no steps to learn.

What the research says

• Low mood: Dancing counts as exercise, which may lift mood. Studies of dance in general are few and small; 5Rhythms itself has not been tested. Some evidence it may help · NHS, 2026 · Cochrane, 2026 · BMJ, 2024
• Stress and worry: Studies of dance in general link it with less stress and worry, but most were small or not controlled. 5Rhythms itself is untested. Limited evidence · WHO Europe, 2019
• Wellbeing and feeling connected: Studies of dance in general found people felt better and more connected to others. Most studies were small, so more research is needed. Limited evidence · WHO Europe, 2019
• Sleep, back pain, menopause and grief: Not studied for these needs in the sources we use. No good evidence yet

More on each need: Lift your mood · Handle stress better · Feel calmer · Sleep better · A relaxed body · Menopause wellbeing · Grief and loss

Is it safe?

Dancing can be energetic, so go at your own pace. Speak to your GP first if you have not exercised for a while or have a health condition. See a GP if low mood lasts more than 2 weeks. NHS, 2024 · NHS, 2026 · NHS, 2026

Sessions on Sissoo complement medical care and never replace it. Please don’t stop or change any treatment without talking to your doctor. If you feel very low or think about ending your life, call your local emergency number now.

Checked 22 October 2026. Next check by April 2027. How we rate the evidence.