Does Clog Dancing Burn a Lot of Calories?

Does Clog Dancing Burn a Lot of Calories?
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Clogging is a type of folk dance that is influenced by European, African American and Native American dance styles. It is an intense dance that involves the percussive tapping of the heel and the toe against the floor, traditionally accompanied by bluegrass, Celtic and country music. Clogging is a vigorous form of aerobic exercise that can help you burn calories, improve cardiovascular endurance and performance, and improve strength and flexibility.

Calories Burned

A 130-lb. individual who clogs at a moderate intensity for 60 minutes can burn 266 calories, while a 317-lb. individual can burn 317 calories in the same amount of time, according to NutriStrategy. A 180-lb. person can burn 368 calories, and a 205-lb. person can burn up to 419 calories. The amount of energy burned from clogging can be compared to the energy expended from brisk walking or light cycling in the same amount of time.

Variables

According to calorie-counter.net, strenuous dancing, which may include dances like higher-intensity clogging, tap and ballet, can burn up to 10 calories per minute. The total amount of calories you expend during a session of clogging or any other aerobic exercise will depend on a number of factors, including weight, age, sex, metabolism, conditioning, intensity and duration of exercise.

Health Benefits

Not only is clogging a healthy way to burn plenty of calories, but it can help you manage your weight, gain muscle strength, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance. Participating in regular aerobic activity like clogging can help reduce your risk of heart disease, some cancers, stroke, high cholesterol and obesity. In addition, clogging is a weight-bearing exercise, which can reduce your risk of developing bone diseases like osteoporosis.

Nutrition for Dancers

Dancers who engage in vigorous rehearsal and performance regimens should couple their physical activity with a nutritious diet and plenty of water each day. Consuming inadequate energy can hinder energy levels, which can increase your chance for injury, cause low body weight and create other health-related complications. A dancer's diet should contain about 55 to 60 percent carbohydrates, 12 to 15 percent protein and 20 to 30 percent fat. Eat three balanced meals each day and snack on wholesome, nutrient-rich foods like whole wheat bagels, nuts and raisins throughout the day to meet your energy and nutrition needs.

References

Article reviewed by RandyS Last updated on: Jul 28, 2011

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