A Scoping Review of Biomechanical and Kinesthetic Approaches in Dance for Middle Aged Adults (40–60 Years) Implications for Safe and Sustainable Choreograph

Adults in midlife (40–60 years) frequently experience sarcopenic onset, declining joint elasticity, and metabolic imbalance, necessitating exercise modalities that are biomechanically safe and cognitively engaging. Dance offers simultaneous motor, perceptual, and social stimulation; however, its structured implementation with explicit biomechanical and kinesthetic integration remains underdeveloped in this population. This scoping review followed PRISMA-ScR protocols and included searches conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar (January 2020–September 2025). Eligible literature comprised randomized controlled trials, quasi-experiments, observational and qualitative designs, and synthesis-based studies involving adults aged 40–60 years. Dual independent screening and data extraction achieved strong inter-rater agreement (κ = 0.89), and thematic consolidation was complemented by bibliometric mapping. Twenty studies met inclusion criteria. Five convergent themes emerged: (1) low-impact choreography optimizes load distribution across major joints; (2) kinesthetic feedback enhances postural stability; (3) structured progression supports musculoskeletal mobility; (4) mindful, body-oriented practice reduces overuse risk; and (5) graded intensity promotes long-term adherence. Across samples, interventions demonstrated high safety when anchored in alignment control and regulated range of motion. Dance-based protocols integrating biomechanical and kinesthetic principles thus present a viable strategy for attenuating age-related musculoskeletal decline and sustaining functional autonomy in midlife.