In 2005, ABC debuted "Dancing with the Stars," a reality TV show that matches actors, actresses, singers, athletes and other celebrities with professional ballroom dancers. In addition to showcasing various types of dances, the show also highlights the major weight loss and health benefits participants experience while learning and performing the routines.
Dancing
If you're looking for a fun-yet-serious cardio workout, consider learning the various dance routines performed on "Dancing with the Stars." Each pair spend hours learning everything from the waltz to the rumba. Many celebrities report major weight loss during and after being on the show, including Kelly Osbourne, Tia Carrere, Marie Osmond and Kyle Massey. Find a cardio dance class, such as cardio ballroom fitness or Zumba, at your local gym, health club or community center to burn calories in a fun way.
Circuit Training
Kelly Osbourne lost 20 lbs., thanks to the health and fitness guidance of her dance partner Louis Van Amstel, plus an additional 48 pounds after the show. Van Amstel taught Osbourne how to eat right and introduced the concept of circuit training. Circuit training involves various exercises such as leg raises, lunges and crunches, all done either in a short amount of time or with a set number for each exercise. Circuit training also involves little to no rest after each exercise. To incorporate circuit training in your workout routine, start off with one or two exercises as a complete circuit. As your fitness levels improve, add more exercises or change the intensity of your workout.
DVDs
Many of the professional ballroom dancers from "Dancing with the Stars" have released cardio fitness workout DVDs. Titles include "Dancing with the Stars: Ballroom Buns and Abs"; "Latin Cardio Dance"; "Cardio Dance" and "Dance off the Pounds." Professional ballroom dancer Julianne Hough released her own line of cardio workout DVDs. Each DVD features easy-to-follow exercise and dance routines adapted from the show that trim and tone your body as well as teach you some new dance moves in about 60 minutes.
Video Games
Now you can learn how to tango with "Dancing with the Stars" video games. Learn various dance moves all in the comfort of your home. This interactive game allows you to choose your professional ballroom dance partner, as well as choose one of nine celebrities to be your on-screen avatar. Simply attach the dance mat to your game console and follow the dance steps on your screen. Play on your own, head-to-head with a friend or part of a duet.
References
- IMDb.com: "Dancing with the Stars"
- FoxNews.com; Is Dancing with the Stars Becoming More of a Weight Loss Competition than a Dancing Show?
- MotleyHealth.com; Kelly Osbourne Loses Weight with Help from her Dance Partner
- Amazon.com: Dancing with the Stars; Cardio Dance DVD
- Amazon.com: Dancing with the Stars Wii Video Game
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