Has it been a long time since you have had fun when you exercised? The rule of thumb is that if it isn't fun you won't stick with it. That certainly holds true for the latest fads in the fitness world. Dancing has made its way from the nightclub to the gym.
Dancing classes are all the rage now. We do it for fun and boy do we work up a sweat. Let's see: sweating, fun, moving to a beat - that sounds like exercise to me. It has all the earmarks of a great way to shed some unwanted pounds. We've all seen Dancing with the Stars and those guys look great.
What are the options for dancing 'til you drop? Here are some of the dance crazes that are making their rounds.
1. Zumba - This class is really gaining popularity. It is a mix of salsa, merengue, and other Latin styles put to stirring music that makes the workout more of an experience than an exercise. Several hundred calories can be burned in an hour from twirling, kicking, and twisting.
2. Hip hop choreography - Who wouldn't want to dance like the girls on stage at a concert? Learning how to move your body takes practice. The majority of the steps depend on balance and a strong core. After you finish stomping, jumping, and turning, your body will be in great shape.
3. Ballroom dancing - Who would have thought that such a high society form of dance would hit the mainstream? It's not the ballroom dancing of the 19th century. With quick moves, spins, throws, and dips, the ballroom dancing of today is hotter than ever. It is all that balancing work that keeps the dancers in such good shape for competitions.
4. Aerobic dance - These classes mix dance moves with some aerobics either on the floor or using an aerobic step. As you work the legs, buns, and heart performing step aerobics routines, the steps get more fluid when Latin dance moves like the cumbia are thrown in for good measure. While step aerobics is hard, the dancing component adds some choreography.
5. Couples dance classes - More and more couples are finding that they can have a good time and work up a sweat in a dance class. These classes are held in small studios. Choose your style: Fox trot, salsa, ballroom, or freestyle. Get a few friends together and try a class. You'll learn some new moves and get in some physical activity three or more days a week.
