Dance, Dance Revolution, or DDR,, may be the answer to your weight-loss woes. The popular video game is available for most game stations, including Nintendo Wii and PlayStation. Dancing on the DDR pad offers a challenging workout similar to any high-energy aerobic class. Successful weight loss using DDR, like any form of aerobic activity, depends on the frequency and duration of your exercise, and on burning more calories than you take in.
How It Works
Dance Dance Revolution is an interactive video game in which you stand on a platform in the arcade version or on a special pad in the home version. The pad has arrows pointing up, down, left and right that correspond with arrows scrolling upward on the video screen. You choose the song you want to dance to, and the instructions begin. When an arrow reaches the top of the screen, you step on the corresponding arrow on the pad.
Calories Burned
The number of calories you burn depends on the level of difficulty you choose. Dance Dance Revolution has three different modes -- light, standard and difficult -- which identify the intensity and speed at which the movements are performed. According to a study conducted by the American Council on Exercise, performing DDR dance moves for one hour burns approximately 354 calories in light mode, 462 in standard and 564 calories in difficult mode, which is an average of 8.1 calories per minute.
Exercise Comparisons
At the light or beginner level, exercising with DDR is similar to a walk on a treadmill. Increase the intensity to the next level and the cardio benefits equal what you might get from high-impact aerobics. Advance to the most difficult level, and you will be performing cardio activity equivalent to cycling at about 12 to 14 mph.
Weight-Loss Results
Using Dance Dance Revolution on a regular basis is not only a viable option for aerobic activity, but it may also result in significant weight loss. In addition, since it is an interactive game, you may find DDR more fun to do than traditional exercises, and you may stick with it longer. Consult your physician before starting any new fitness routine.
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