If you have always loved to boogie, enjoy music, have a sense of rhythm or are simply curious, dance may be your ticket to a more slender silhouette. The key to losing weight is to decrease your overall calorie intake or increase the overall number of calories you burn (without eating to compensate for it). Dieting does the former, but any form of exercise you find enjoyable will do the latter, including dancing. According to the National Dance Association, dance will also increase strength, tone and flexibility while improving mental function and mood. There are a large number of opportunities for people of all ages to get involved in dance--ballet, ballroom, modern, swing, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, tap and others.
Step 1
Decide whether you would like to emphasize the fitness or the dancing element of your new hobby. A number of different fitness classes are built around dance, including Jazzercise and the currently red-hot Zumba. These classes use elements of dance to create an aerobic workout that is fun, but it is geared toward the exerciser, including many who are trying to lose weight. Dance instruction, on the other hand, will focus more rigorously on the techniques and choreography of a specific style of dance. All types of dance involve exercise, but some classes may invite more movement at the outset than others. For example, ballet requires time for beginners to build up a knowledge of basic positions and moves before a significant amount of choreography can be attempted. Hip hop is just the opposite, and you'll be expected to jump right in. Dance styles that require a partner may offer less opportunity for participation if you do not bring a partner with you.
Step 2
Ask to take a trial class or watch a class. Many studios and health clubs that offer dance will often allow prospective clients to try a class for free. Most serious dance studios are set up to allow viewers to observe the dancers perform. These visits will allow you to gather information about costs, times of classes and get a sense of the instructors. Most importantly, you will have a better idea of whether this is the class for you.
Step 3
Find out from instructors or fellow dancers what type of equipment you will need. For example, ballet classes usually have clear guidelines for the type of attire that is required. Ballet shoes are a must. On the other hand, you can wear just about any comfortable clothing that allows movement to a Zumba class, including shoes, which may be cross trainers, running shoes or dance shoes.
Step 4
Start with a beginner class, even if it seems too easy. Your next course of action is to practice. If you are having trouble with a step, practice it at home to your favorite music. You will be surprised at how your "muscle memory" will eventually kick in, allowing you to execute a step even as your mind is thinking you are going to misstep. It's also not uncommon at first to have difficulty remembering the order of steps, something that's required in the choreography portion of a serious dance class. With time, you will find that this too becomes easier, and it's also good exercise for your brain.
Step 5
Keep at it and have fun. Gradually, increase your amount of exercise. As with any learning situation, a good instructor makes all the difference. Instructors will let you know when you are ready to move to more advanced levels. If one style of dance is not for you, there are many others to choose from.
Tips and Warnings
- Be sure to arrive on time for class and stay for the cooldown. It is important to warm up and stretch prior to exercise to avoid injury. A sweater or sweatshirt is recommended to help your body stay warm until you break a sweat. Cooldown and stretching at the end of class will improve your overall flexibility. There are different subcultures associated with different styles of dance. If the style is attractive to you, you'll quickly figure out the unwritten rules and customs.
- For children who are undertaking dance training, it is particularly important to find knowledgeable instructors, since developmental injuries can occur without the proper amount of cross-training or respect for developing bones. Dancing to lose weight is no different from any other exercise regimen undertaken for health reasons. It is important to consult your doctor before embarking upon a new exercise routine. Increase your exercise at a pace appropriate to your health and weight loss goals.
Things You'll Need
- Dance or exercise shoes suitable to the style of dance
- Attire suitable to the style of dance
- Cover up, such as a sweater or sweat shirt
- Water bottle
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