Fitness enthusiasts have been burning up the dance floor for years, rockin' off the calories to the sound of heart-pumping tunes and easy-to-master choreography. To stay fresh with the times, though, dance fitness instructors constantly adapt their choreography and develop new classes, often inspired by popular dance styles ranging from hip-hop and Latin dance to ballroom, ballet and classical dance.

One of the best things about dance fitness classes is that they're accessible to almost all fitness levels. They also provide an easy and fun way for people to get active. Just don't assume all dance fitness classes are the same.

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Dance fitness stands out from technical or traditional dance in that technique and intricate choreography aren't the focus. Participants don't spend weeks or months perfecting a single routine in anticipation of a show or recital; rather, they show up, work up a sweat while doing their best to follow an instructor, and leave feeling good about their workout.

Most dance fitness classes have a focus on cardiovascular exercise. Instructors plan easy-to-follow choreography that keeps participants moving in an effort to raise their heart rates. This style of cardio dance is the type that's been known to take over the world. Zumba, Jazzercise, LaBlast, Hip Hop Abs, TurboJam, and Bokwa all fall in this category.

 

Things to Know About Dance Fitness

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The beauty of dance fitness classes is that they really are inclusive and, in most cases, they can be easily modified. Aside from people with major injuries or health concerns, most can comfortably join dance fitness classes and feel good about the experience.

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Cardio Dance: These classes may include hip-swaying and chest pops, but their pace is fast and their intent is to make you break a sweat (nothing further). Cardio dance classes are often based on certain styles or forms of dance. For instance, Zumba is based loosely on Latin dance; Bokwa on African dance; Doonya on Bollywood dance; LaBlast on ballroom dance; Jazzercise on jazz dance; Kerboomka on club-style dance; and Broadway Bodies on Broadway dance. You may find you prefer one form or another, but their intents are more or less the same—to improve your cardiovascular fitness.

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Barre Workouts: Barre workouts are ballet-inspired routines that incorporate elements of yoga, Pilates, and strength training with light weights. Posture and proper form are a primary focus as instructors lead students through moves that challenge balance, stability, and core strength. High repetitions, small, isolating "pulses," and slow movements contribute to the often-cited "muscle shakes" and "burnout" associated with the routines. The workouts are generally low-impact and moderate-intensity, offering a modest cardiovascular benefit. Where they really shine is in their focus on flexibility and core strength, making them an excellent cross-training option for runners, cyclists, and heavy lifters. 

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Mind-Body Dance: Mind-body dance typically incorporates elements of yoga, tai chi, or martial arts into a flowing routine. These workouts offer combined benefits ranging from improved cardiovascular health to enhanced flexibility and reduced stress. Classes are typically low-impact and low- to moderate-intensity, perfect for beginners looking for a way to ease into exercise. 

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Sensual Dance: Sensual dance classes are a little more sexual and include everything from belly dancing to pole dancing. Some options, such as burlesque-style or striptease classes, tend to have a stronger focus on raising your heart rate (and the heart rate of those around you), while pole and aerial classes increase their focus on total body strength and flexibility.

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Worth to note:

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It's not unusual for newbies to feel awkward when trying dance fitness classes for the first time—even "easy" choreography can be tricky to pick up if you're not used to doing it. Rather than throw in the towel, position yourself to the side or back of the classroom and focus on having fun. You may feel self-conscious, but no one else is paying any attention to whether or not you've mastered the steps. After a few classes, you'll get used to the methods and start mastering the moves.

 

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