- stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis
- better coordination, agility and flexibility
- improved balance and spatial awareness
- increased physical confidence
- improved mental functioning
- improved general and psychological wellbeing
- greater self-confidence and self-esteem
- better social skills.
Riberio says, “I’ve lost a lot of weight. When you’re working eight hours a day…you’re going to lose weight. It’s a lot of work, a lot of fun.”
During an interview with Vlad TV, Karyn Parsons, who played Riberio’s on-screen sister Hilary Banks, spoke at length about how much each actor had influence over their character development. Parsons explained that out of the entire cast, Riberio’s character was most like him in real life.
“They write to the person. Alfonso as Carlton was a huge example of that because in the very beginning of ‘Fresh Prince’ if you watched him, it’s really unclear what Carlton’s thing is,” she said. “He started to define that character very clearly himself and then the writers had to follow.”
One of the ways in which the writers followed Ribeiro’s lead was when it came to his musical interests and sense of comedy style.
Parsons explained that what would become known as the “Carlton dance” was the typical “silly and goofy” behavior of Ribeiro behind the scenes. Interestingly, Ribeiro created the dance after watching another actress and mocking her moves.
It’s evident that Alfonso finds joy in dancing and doesn’t shy away from doing the Carlton dance anytime he’s asked. No matter what is said about him or to him, he continually looks at the bright side of things. It’s that bright side that is a shining example of how we all can find joy in the midst of it all.