Are you bored of your current workout routine? Switch up your go-to cardio workout with a full-body dance workout. There are many types of dance workouts to choose from, from ballet and tap dance to hip-hop and contemporary dance.
We’ll cover some of the most popular dance workout programs to help you decide which is best for you.
What Are Dance Workouts?
A dance workout is similar to other popular forms of cardio — think running, cycling, or walking. It targets the whole body, working different muscle groups, such as your core, lower body, and upper body. One study found that dance workouts like Zumba significantly affect weight loss and reduce overall body fat in women.
There are different types of dance workouts that you can choose from. Most last between 30 to 60 minutes. Choose from low- or high-intensity workouts designed for beginners to advanced dancers. In addition, there are different dance workout styles, including ballet, Zumba, hip-hop, and much more.
Dancing is a great way to switch up your go-to workout routine, plus if you take dance workouts in a studio, you can socialize and make new friends!
Why Are Dance Workouts Effective?
Whether you are trying to lose weight or improve your overall fitness, dance workouts are an effective way to live a more active lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of dance workouts:
Builds Cardiovascular Endurance
The best dance workout should keep you moving and sweating. In addition, dancing is an excellent way to increase your heart rate for an effective cardio workout.
Increases Strength and Flexibility
Dance workouts are excellent for building both strength and flexibility, engaging multiple muscle groups in a full-body workout. By repeating movements that test your body’s range of motion, you’ll continue to develop better strength and flexibility.
You should, of course, listen to your body and adapt the intensity of your workouts to your fitness level. Never push your body if something feels uncomfortable, building flexibility takes time. Always warm up before and stretch after your workout to help prevent soreness and injuries.
Improves Balance and Coordination
A full-body workout with dance moves will help you develop your balance and coordination as you learn to move to the beat and transition from one movement to the next.
Boosts Your Mood
Is dancing a good workout? Just ask your brain! Dancing can release more endorphins than aerobic exercises. As a result, you’ll feel better, sleep better, and think more clearly.
Reduces Stress
Dancing can reduce your cortisol levels and help with stress.
Improves Self-Esteem
Dance workouts not only leave you feeling accomplished but also boost your self-esteem as you master new moves and grooves that you can proudly showcase. Dancing pushes many people out of their comfort zones — when you accomplish a new move or have a great workout, you’ll leave your workout with a positive mindset.
Can Beginners Learn Dance Workouts?
Dance is for everyone, and beginners can easily get started. Most beginner dance fitness classes introduce you to low-impact and simple moves, making it accessible for all.
As you develop your strength, endurance, and coordination, you’ll be able to move on to more advanced classes. Dancing will keep you motivated, so start simple. If you start far out of your comfort zone, you may feel discouraged and stop dancing before getting started.
If you’re nervous about trying a dance workout for the first time, bring along a friend or partner and you can try it together!
The Best Dance Workouts for Beginners
Now, let’s explore eight of the best dance workout programs, each offering a unique and enjoyable fitness experience.
Each style has its benefits, and you can try out different genres, styles, and techniques with unlimited dance classes to see what you like best. If you’re unsure which to try first, look for some dance workout videos to try at home so you can get a feel for what you like.
Zumba
Zumba mixes aerobic exercise, Latin dance moves, and upbeat music for a fun experience.
Belly Dancing
Is belly dancing a good workout? Yes! It’s fun, engaging, and a great way to develop your core muscles.
Just Dance
Is Just Dance a good workout, even though it’s a video game? Absolutely! This popular dance video game is a fun way to get a full-body workout at home.
Pole Dancing
Is pole dancing a good workout? You bet! Pole dancing is one of the best dance workout programs to sculpt your core and build your strength. But it requires specialized equipment, so look for a class near you!
Barre
Barre mixes ballet, Pilates, and yoga to build strength and flexibility.
Jazzercise
Jazzercise classes have been a popular workout option since the 80s. This style of dance workout mixes upbeat pop music with original choreographies.
Hip-Hop
Hip-hop is an excellent cardio workout and a dance workout that will always push you to try something new as you learn signature moves.
Freestyle
Freestyle dancing is highly versatile. Classes typically combine elements from different styles and can be slow or intense depending on your level.
Take Dance Class at On One Studios Today
Dancing is one of the best ways to work on cardio and engage every muscle in your body. Plus, a dance workout can boost your mood, relieve stress, and make you feel amazing about what your body is capable of.
Ready to start grooving and reaping the benefits of dance workouts? Dive into the world of dance fitness and choreography with On One Studios. Our online dance studio offers a wide range of classes and dance workout videos that will get you moving like never before.
Sign up for our dance fitness classes today to experience the joy of dance while enhancing your fitness journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Dance Workouts
Is dancing 30 minutes a day a good workout?
30 minutes of dancing is a great cardio workout. Depending on the style of dancing, the intensity, and your weight, you can work up quite the sweat during a dance class and improve your cardiovascular health, balance, and coordination.
What is the best dance form to tone your body?
If you want to get into dancing to tone your muscles, try ballet, salsa, contemporary dance, Zumba, or even flamenco dancing.
What dance burns the most fat?
High-intensity dance classes will help you burn the most fat. These classes include hip-hop, pole dancing, Zumba, swing, and ballet.
How long should I dance a day?
You should aim to dance for 30 minutes to 1 hour five times a week to help improve your health and see the benefits of dance.