Staying fit through dance

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Aerobic dance is a way for people to get into shape while also having fun. (Photos: Envato Elements)
Everyone knows that exercise is good for health, but not many people can find the time and, more importantly, the motivation to stick to traditional cardio and weightlifting. For many, traditional exercises can be too complex and mundane. Aerobic dance, on the other hand, inspired by dance movements, has become increasingly popular over the last two decades and is a great way to stay in shape while also having a little bit of fun. It is a way to stay fit, and improve muscle tone, strength, endurance and overall fitness. اضافة اعلان

Aerobic dance brings people of all ages together as it typically involves large groups of people. One has the choice to go alone, of course, or bring along a friend or a large group. 

Aerobic dance is extremely flexible. It can be performed indoors (in a gym, at home or in a dance studio) or outdoors (in a park or on an empty field). There is a big variety of aerobic dances to choose from. 

Benefits 

Not only is aerobic dance enjoyable, it is also an extremely effective fitness technique. It can burn up to 800 calories in an hour, while keeping one motivated and entertained. For weight loss, 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of high intensity is recommended each week. Aerobic dance is considered low impact, because it is typically slower paced than most workouts. This makes it an ideal option for people of all ages, but especially the elderly. 

It can also increase or decrease in intensity, depending on preference. Aerobic dancing is now heavily incorporated in many fitness centers, as well as in schools to keep children entertained during fitness classes. There are hundreds of different aerobic dance videos on YouTube enabling one to enjoy all its benefits from the comfort of one’s home 


(Photos: Envato Elements)

Types of aerobic dances

The many choices available give one the opportunity to choose the fitness routine one feels is suitable. Many people are more familiar with the following four types:

Zumba

Zumba is a fitness program that combines international, salsa and Latin music. It is a full body workout that involves several choregraphed moves performed at different speeds following the beat of a song. In just a few classes, one’s endurance will increase. Zumba may be adapted for any fitness level and ranges from beginner to expert. Even for those who know nothing about dance, Zumba can be easy. 

Studies on its benefits show improved blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health, due to the increased aerobic capacity (oxygen intake) it induces. 

Since it can be done in a group, it can be a great motivator to start something new. In that aspect, it has the added social benefit of enabling one to spend time with friends and meet new people.


(Photos: Envato Elements)

Ballroom dancing

Ballroom dancing is typically performed with a partner and includes waltz, salsa and tango. It involves more difficult steps and typically takes a lot of training. It can improve flexibility, balance and muscle strength in a short period of time. Remembering all the steps can also have cognitive benefits, as it is a good memory exercise. 

Ballroom dancing originated in Europe in the 18th century and became a crucial element in many social events. Today, it is considered a low-impact aerobic activity that boosts metabolism. It is also known for its ability to bring people together. It gives one the opportunity to expand one’s social circle and engage with people in a calm and low-pressure environment. 

Belly dancing

Belly dancing originated in Egypt and remains a popular form of dance in the Middle East. It is a great way to stay in shape, gain confidence and improve balance. Belly dancing entails moving specific abdominal muscles, the glutes and quads without feeling like one is exercising. While it focuses on specific muscles, it is also a great full body workout and a fun way to break a sweat. It has increased in popularity lately as a fitness routine. It keeps heart rates up throughout the workout. The longer the heart rate stays up, the more calories will be burned. 

Belly dancing is another fun way to get in shape with family and friends. Jordan is one of the many Middle Eastern countries that embraces belly dancing in its culture. Joining a belly dancing class may be scary at first, but with practice of the basic movements, one will be able to work out in an entertaining way. 

Aqua dancing

Swimming is known to be an excellent way to exercise. Those who are not exactly great at it have the option to sign up for a water dancing class. Water dancing is a form of aquatic fitness that is light, easy and provides great results. 

Among the many known benefits of water exercise: reduced strain on joints, muscles and heart. It is also an excellent way to lose weight. The added resistance from being in water makes the moves harder to perform but will provide you with great results. Water dancing is also great for toning and shaping. The natural resistance provided by the water will also help build muscle. 

The easy routine, along with the enjoyment of being in a pool, makes water dancing one of the most entertaining forms of exercise. It can be a great family experience and is suitable for any age group (excluding infants and toddlers). 
Water dancing is a social activity typically performed in large groups, so it also enhances one’s quality of life, enabling one to create new and fun memories while also exercising. 

Exercise is an important aspect of health and is needed in many medical conditions. It can also help one look and feel better. Sticking to the gym or the same workout routine can quickly tire one out and lead to quitting fitness goals entirely. 

Dancing is a great way to achieve any and all of one’s fitness goals without getting bored or demotivated. Every type of dance has both health and social benefits. 

The hardest part of working out is always finding the motivation to do so. When it comes to dance aerobics, it is easy to convince friends and family to join one for a class or two. If one prefers one’s own company, many of these dances can be performed for free in the comfort of one’s home. There are many different options to choose from and lots of room to find something that one enjoys.

Losing weight does not have to be a difficult task. Once one starts to enjoy workouts, one will also find it easier to keep on performing them and stay in best health.

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