If the phrase "loves music, loves to dance" describes you, then chances are you will enjoy working out to dance exercise videos. Dancing for exercise provides an effective aerobic workout, easily fulfilling the recommended 30 minutes of moderate to intense level of daily activity as indicated in the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines.The many varied styles of dance offered in dance exercise videos virtually ensures that you will not get bored with your workout.
Dance vs. Fitness Instructors
When comparing dance exercise videos, take into consideration the professional background of the instructor. The workouts can be taught by dance professionals, dance professionals turned fitness instructors or fitness instructors who may have a background in dance. Dance and fitness classes are cued differently. While dancers usually cue on the eight count, group fitness instructors use 32-count phrasing. Dance teaching techniques use a start-stop-repeat approach, while a group fitness instructor keeps the routine flowing, expecting you to pick up the moves and keep moving. If you are looking for a dance exercise video that delivers an intense cardio workout, compare videos that are taught by group fitness professionals.
Pricing vs. Length
Pricing for dance exercise videos run on average $10 to $20. Check to see what you are getting for the price you are paying. A quality dance exercise video will provide you with a warm-up, 20- to 40-minute aerobic segment, toning, abdominal work, stretch and cool-down, and will run about 60 minutes. Some will even have a separate module to teach the basic movements that will prepare you to pick up the routine quickly and decrease your learning curve.
Expertise in Format
Fitness professionals teach a variety of formats, and they are better at some than others. Don't mistake their ability to perform the movements with their ability to teach the movements. Industry professional instructor Kathy Smith, who has sold millions of exercise videos, invites professionals from the dance sector to participate in her exercise videos. The dancers don't lead the workout, but they are there to provide tips and techniques while Kathy cues and keeps everybody moving. Remember, the goal is exercise, not necessarily preparing you for a dance audition. As long as you can follow the cues and keep your heart rate elevated, you will reap the benefits of a cardiovascular workout.
Level of Difficulty
If you know that you have poor abdominal control, that it's difficult for you to perform hip thrusts or rolls, then even though a dance exercise video is rated for beginners, it could be a challenging and advanced workout for you. A Latin dance or hip-hop dance video is an appropriate choice if you enjoy a challenge and are patient and persistent. Doing something different helps to jump-start your body, which can be helpful if you've hit a plateau. However, if you are easily frustrated and don't really want to take the time to learn the movements, then choose a dance exercise video that's recommended for beginners, usually described as low-impact, with basic, easy-to-learn steps and short combinations.
Additional Tips
Comparing dance exercise videos is similar to comparing apples and oranges. They are both fruit and both delicious, but you might prefer one to the other. A comparison of these videos will reveal a variety of styles, formats, teaching techniques, music and difficulty levels. Focus on teaching styles and music that moves you, rather than the dance style. Try a variety of dance styles more than one time. Try the same dance style with a different instructor. Rent an exercise dance video before purchasing. Preview clips of the videos online at such sites as Collage Video. If you are up to it, multitask with your dance video by learning some new dance steps you can take to the club, as well as getting a good workout.
Member Comments