You don't have to be a professional dancer to get all of the great benefits from getting your groove on. Realizing this, many people have migrated to dancing for fitness. From group classes to quality DVDs to simply blasting the radio in the living room, dancing has proven itself a great way to burn calories while having a good time and lots of fun.



Many health clubs have started offering fitness dance classes to their members. Group classes are great for beginners who want to learn the moves and make new friends. One of the most popular of these is Zumba. Zumba combines upbeat Latin music with moves that are easy enough for almost anyone to learn. Plus, the Zumba routine incorporates fast-paced intervals that can help torch calories and fat. When done right, this dance session can burn more than 500 calories in an hour.

Another popular group class for dance fitness is the LesMills Body Jam program. This routine focuses on hip hop music and teaches each choreographed routine for three months. This means participants can master a routine over time without worrying about new steps each week. The classes last about an hour, and include heart-pumping, fast-paced segments as well as slower beats to let you catch your breath. This makes it a great option for dancers of all abilities.

Of course, there are also traditional dance classes that focus on learning performance routines. Ballroom dancing has become more and more popular, but jazz, hip hop, and swing dance are also great for burning calories. Just remember, these courses focus more on choreography than on getting in shape. They are still great for your health, but you won't burn as many calories in an instructional class.

For those people who don't want to show off their dancing skills in a group, there are countless DVD programs that provide instruction, music, and motivation right in your own living room. Just like group classes, there are two big styles of dance videos. First, there are the fitness DVDs that incorporate dance as another way to burn calories. Then, there are dedicated dance DVD's that teach you a formal routine. Either way, you're sure to enjoy some fun cardio exercises with these products.

In addition to getting your heart rate up, dancing also improves coordination, balance, and flexibility. This makes it a great, comprehensive and complete workout for people of all ages. You can dance with your friends, your kids, or by yourself. Plus, there are many different varieties of dance styles to choose from. From hip hop to belly dancing to even new pole dancing fitness routines, there is sure to be one that will suit your interests and abilities.