Getting fit and maintaining a regular exercise routine doesn't have to require boring workouts in the gym or on the treadmill. Dancing is one way to get the exercise you need, relieve stress and have fun. Many types of dance or dance-based fitness programs offer a moderate or vigorous cardiovascular workout.
Types
The type of dance you choose impacts the muscles worked and the intensity of your cardiovascular workout. Traditional partnered dance classes, like swing or ballroom, are one option, or you can opt for line dancing, belly dancing or modern dance. Many gyms offer dance-inspired workout classes, or you can use a DVD at home. Zumba, pole dancing or Bollywood-inspired classes and DVDs can all burn calories, tone muscles and keep you excited about exercise.
Function
Dancing burns calories, improves cardiovascular fitness, tones muscles and helps posture and flexibility, according to the Simply Anti Aging website. Many forms of dance work the core muscles of the abdomen, back and pelvis. Dancing is load-bearing exercise, valuable for bone density and the prevention of osteoporosis. Opting for a dance-based fitness routine may even improve your confidence on the dance floor at clubs or wedding, recommends Lindsey Emery, senior fitness editor at "Fitness" magazine.
Considerations
Choose a dance class or dance workout based on your own interests. If you have a partner, you may find that taking a ballroom, salsa or swing dance class together allows you to get fit and have fun as a couple. More self-conscious individuals may prefer a dance-based DVD at home, allowing you to relax and enjoy your workout in the privacy of your own living room, suggests Nancy Hellmich at USA Today.
Benefits
Depending upon the type of dance, your starting weight and the intensity of your dance workout, dancing should burn around 300 calories an hour, according to Calorie-Counter.net. More intense dance fitness classes or DVDs may burn more calories during the course of your workout, with the typical Zumba class burning 500 to 800 calories reports the Zumba Fitness New Jersey website.
Misconceptions
A dance workout doesn't necessarily mean high heels and a ballroom dance dress. Opt for comfortable cross-trainer shoes for dance workouts at home or in the gym, recommends "Fitness" magazine's Lindsey Emery. If you do choose traditional dance classes, purchase good-quality dance shoes, rather than wearing your usual heels for comfort and stability.
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