If you love to dance, and a night with your friends at a club sounds like an ideal evening, then hip-hop dance workouts may be just right for you. They are fun, energetic and can even be intense. The Centers for Disease Control is now suggesting that adults get at least 75 minutes of vigorous to intense aerobic exercise every week. The American Council on Exercise stresses that not only is dance great for the body, but research shows that it can improve memory and promotes successful aging. So pick a hip-hop workout right for you and get moving.
Workout Videos
Many hip-hop videos are available from which to choose. For beginners, the "Learn to Hip-Hop" collection is a two-disc set that breaks down moves like those seen in "So You Think You Can Dance." If you are looking for a sexy workout and enjoy the idea of going out to the club, the "Dance A GoGo" series may be for you. If you would like to amp up your routine, look to Shaun T and his killer "Hip Hop Abs" series.
Workouts Online
If you tend to get bored with the same videos and need a little variety in your workouts, on demand fitness is where it's at. These websites work like On Demand television, providing a constant stream of workouts right at your fingertips. For a monthly fee, "ExerciseTV.tv" has over 200 commercial-free videos from which to choose. "WorkoutsonDemand.com" is another membership site with streaming video as well as unlimited exercise video downloads and a large hip-hop cardio selection.
Hip-hop Fitness Classes
If you have a hard time staying motivated and pushing yourself, you may enjoy group fitness classes. Not only is group fitness fun, but when you commit to a class, you are more likely to hold yourself accountable and show up. As the popularity of hip-hop workouts continues to increase, hip-hop fitness classes are easier to find. Check with your local fitness centers and dance studios for adult hip-hop classes. Establishments such as 24Hour Fitness offers hip hop, funk and "Hustle," which gives you the feeling of a night on the town.
Nutrition Plan
If you truly want those hip-hop abs, include a good nutrition plan in your fitness program. A healthy dancer's diet consists of quality lean protein, leafy green vegetables and a lot of water. Check out the "Skinny Bitch" diet series for a sexy and fun take on a healthy eating plan. Consult a nutritionist if you would like a customized plan and, as always, consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.
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