Latin Dance Exercise

Are you hooked on the sexy rhythms of dance shows or movies, but want to get off the couch and burn some calories? Learn to Latin dance: it's a fun, upbeat way to get an aerobic workout and tone your core. And you'll be too busy enjoying yourself to feel like you're working out.

  1. Latin Dance Fitness Classes

    • Latin dance fitness classes like Zumba are offered in many gyms and studios across the nation. They combine fun aerobic dance moves with simple choreography to keep students entertained and working hard. You do not need a background in dance or a lot of coordination, though you should be able to find a beat to follow along with the class. Latin dance classes are usually less complicated than step aerobic classes, but still require some concentration.

      Be sure to hydrate well before class, though not immediately beforehand. Dress comfortably and wear something to keep your hair out of your face. Don't feel bad about taking a break at any time, especially if you're a beginner. Most classes are an hour long, which includes a warm up and cool down.

    Latin Dance Fitness DVDs

    • Latin dance DVDs offer many of the same benefits and simple choreography as classes. And with DVDs, you can work at your own pace: rewind or use slow-motion to learn the choreography, and there is no need to feel self-conscious. DVDs also offer you the option of working out when and for however long you want.

      However, keep in mind that DVDs have much less variety and scope than a live class: you may quickly become bored, or your body will adapt and then you'll need to buy a new one or rotate through several. Try series and DVDs like the Core Rhythms Dance Program, Zumba, or the 10 Minute Solution: Fat Blasting Latin Dance Mix DVD for a variety of workouts that you can mix and match for a different workout each time. And try working out to a DVD with a friend to get the social benefits and motivation of exercising with someone.

    Social Latin Dancing

    • Going out dancing at a club or event is a fun way to socialize and exercise. Latin dancing burns 600 to 1000 calories per hour. Sign up for a group class at a dance studio or take private lessons. Be sure to ask questions about your dance form. You will get more exercise benefits from dancing if you learn to engage your abdominal muscles and follow your instructor's directions on appropriate dance posture.

    Motivation

    • Figure out which approach works best for you - classes, social dancing, or DVDs - and then stick to it. You may like that classes make you show up at the same time daily or weekly and help make a habit out of exercising. Or you might like the convenience of DVDs, which can be used at any time and won't give you the excuse of not being able to exercise because you don't have the time to get to a regular class.

      Another way to stay motivated is to keep a journal of your progress and look back on your measurements or dress size to give you the motivation to keep going when you don't feel like it.