Half of Brits are ‘terrified’ of dancing in public

Half of Brits are ‘terrified’ of dancing in public – with three in 10 afraid others will laugh at them.

A poll of 2,000 adults found 29 per cent never bop in public – while for 22 per cent, the thought of doing so is the stuff of nightmares.

With 12 per cent admitting the mere possibility of a boogie under the gaze of others is likely to see them break out in a cold sweat.

Nearly six in 10 (58 per cent) of those polled have actively avoided social gatherings where music was being played – because they were scared of being pressured into dancing when they didn’t want to.

While 13 per cent have managed to avoid it for so long, they can’t even remember the last time they actually had a boogie when out and about.

The research was commissioned by Lipton Ice Tea to launch its new Kombucha range, teaming up with Wes Nelson to create a new track called ‘Kombucha-cha’ [https://youtu.be/oYTx7_0bV7s] which aims to inspire more people to dance.

Amid fears the UK is entering a dance drought, Wes Nelson, said: “We all need a little more joy in our lives, and nothing makes you feel alive more than moving your feet.

“Whether you’re dancing in your bedroom or out with your mates in the sunshine, let’s bring the fun back.”

The study also found 47 per cent would like the confidence to dance like no one is watching – rising to 65 per cent among Gen Z adults.

It emerged this generation is most apprehensive about boogieing in public (53 per cent), followed by Millennials (52 per cent) and Gen X (48 per cent).

With the top reasons adults are fearful of dancing in public including a lack of belief in their abilities (46 per cent), feeling silly (44 per cent), and being stared at (33 per cent).

Despite their concerns many do like dancing – it’s just the doing it in public which appears to be a worry for some.

As many as 63 per cent said they enjoy it “a great deal” or a “moderate amount”, while 59 per cent said the activity results in them feeling happier.

More than half (53 per cent) even said it makes them feel alive and 26 per cent said it helps with their mental health.

And perhaps reassuringly, 76 per cent believe anyone can dance – that there’s no need to have formal training to do so.

However, 11 per cent also claim there are no clubs or bars for them to dance in anymore.

Carried out through OnePoll, the study also found, that prior to taking part in the research, 40 per cent were unaware dancing releases endorphins.

Emma Marshall, happiness expert for Lipton Kombucha, which will be taking over Battersea Power Station Square on June 13 for a day of ‘non-stop feel-good tunes,’ said: “From feeling energised to releasing endorphins, loads of people are missing out on the benefits of dancing.

“You don’t need to be a professional dancer, all you need is an upbeat track and space to move – you’ll feel the benefits!’’