How Do The Different Types Of Dancing Help You Lose Weight?

Dancing can help you burn calories and stay fit, but there are a number of dance styles that you can choose from. By having a better understanding of various types of dance and how each one can specifically help you lose weight, you can choose a type of dance that is enjoyable and beneficial as a way to keep in shape. Each type of dance offers specific benefits to help you tighten your abs, sculpt lean muscles and burn calories with a cardiovascular workout.

Hip Hop

Hip hop, an urban, street form of dancing, is most popular in nightclubs. It involves a quick succession of movements which exercise the entire body. Much of hip hop dancing takes place in the hips and waist, which can help you firm and tone your abs. The fast movement helps to burn calories. Fitness gurus, like Shaun T. of the "Hip Hops Abs" videos, have harnessed the power of hip hop dancing in a formal exercise program. Whether you dance with a video or dance at the club, you'll torch about 250 calories per hour.

Ballet

Ballet is sometimes seen as a slow-moving and low-impact form of dance. It actually takes strength and precision in order to perform most ballet positions and movements. Much like Pilates, ballet uses slow and controlled movements which help to build long and lean muscles. Ballet movements are sometimes reminiscent of certain gym exercises; a plie looks something like a squat. Paired with the stretching and lengthening of the muscles, ballet can help you get a full-body workout.

Belly

Belly dancing remains a popular way to stay fit. Originating from Middle Eastern culture, belly dancing classes are offered at some of the most mainstream health clubs and studios. Belly dancing involves the swiveling of the hips, which can help tone a flabby midsection. Belly dancing is a low-impact workout, making it ideal for those who have limited movement. Belly dancing can provide much-needed stress reduction, which can help you make better diet choices throughout the day for more weight loss.

Video Games

Dancing doesn't have to take place in a studio, club or gym. Work out at home by using any number of dance-video games to keep you motivated and excited. Some games require you to dance accurately and consistently in order to unlock new levels, helping you burn calories and tone your body while you try to beat the next level. This can make your dance workout more competitive for the maximum output and best results.