Jazzercise For Weight Loss

Jazzercise is a fusion of jazz dance, kickboxing, Pilates, resistance training and yoga -- making it an effective form of aerobic exercise. To lose weight, the Weight-control Information Network points out that some people need as much as 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise weekly. However, Jazzercise combines movements at both moderate and vigorous intensity levels, so you can still reap the rewards from shorter sessions.

In 1969, Judi Sheppard Missett turned her love of jazz dance into Jazzercise as an alternative to callisthenics and dance classes to stay fit. Jazzercise is accredited by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, and Missett received the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Lifetime Achievement Award. Children who are overweight or obese can also benefit from this exercise in hour-long Junior Jazzercise classes that include a 20-minute game segment that focuses on nutrition and exercise.

Calories Burned

According to Jazzercise Inc., you can burn up to 600 calories in a 60-minute class. However, the amount of calories you burn will depend on factors such as your gender, the intensity level at which you're exercising and your weight. Also, because Jazzercise includes strength training, it increases muscle mass. Adding just a small amount of muscle makes your body burn more calories -- or energy -- and store less fat.

Amount for Weight Loss

As an aerobic exercise, Jazzercise should be part of your fitness routine four or five days a week. If you can't complete 60 minutes of Jazzercise, aim for at least 20 to 30 minutes. You can find Jazzercise classes for all levels of fitness. If you haven't exercised for a while, are overweight or have a medical condition, consult your doctor before beginning Jazzercise. Once your doctor gives you the green light to exercise, look for classes or DVDs for beginners.

Learning Jazzercise

The Jazzercise website takes you through the basic movements so you can get moving and burn excess calories. Classes provide a fun, interactive way to lose weight -- and you might benefit from the motivation of the trainer or others in the class. To find a class, enter your address into the Jazzercise Class Locator. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and take a water bottle and towel. Remember to go at your own pace and gradually increase your intensity as you become fitter.