Musical-Related Dance Exercises to Lose Weight

Music-related dance exercise has been on the scene since the 1960s, and it's still going strong today. It's not only become a fun way to burn fat, increase cardio fitness and stay healthy, but a go-to for those trying to maintain, or build physical fitness. For those who would rather cut a rug instead of running several miles a day, dance fitness may be the path for you. If you have a workout program you enjoy, you're more likely to stick with it.

  1. Zumba

    • One of the most popular music-related dance exercises on the market today is Zumba. Since 2001, Zumba has been fusing upbeat music with a Latin-style dance. Th workout not only provides a good cardio and overall body workout, but slams the abs as well. For those who love water aerobics or swimming, the Aqua Zumba program incorporates Zumba choreography and philosophy in an aquatic classroom, making this workout easier on the joints while adding the resistance of the water. There are even Zumba levels for babies, toddlers, and kids.

    Jazzercise

    • Long before Zumba, there was Jazzercise -- the pioneering dance fitness program -- which began in 1969. This workout incorporates jazz dance, hip hop, Latin dance, Pilates, yoga, kickboxing and resistance training for a cardiovascular workout that increases strength, endurance and flexibility. The franchise envelops a network of 7,800 instructors and more than 32,000 weekly classes in 32 countries. According to the official Jazzercise website, participants can burn up to 600 calories in one 60-minute session. Other Jazzercise classes include Jazzercise Express, Body Sculpting, Jazzercise Low Impact and Jazzercise Lite.

    Beachbody

    • Another popular music-related dance fitness company that has recently pounded the market is Beachbody, which is responsible for the P90X and Insanity workouts. The Santa Monica, Calif. company also produces dance fitness videos, such as Rockin Body, Turbo Jam LIVE, Brazil Butt Lift, Shaun T's Dance Party Series, Hip Hop Abs Ultimate Results, Yoga Booty Ballet Ab & Butt Makeover, and Brazil Butt Lift Deluxe. All of the fitness videos help to attack the flab and increase cardio through different dance styles. Beachbody even offers a workout centered around Gospel music.

    Dance Trance

    • Dance Trance uses music video-style dance moves to create a dance fitness routine. Like the aforementioned programs, Dance Trance is also aimed at increasing cardiovascular strength and endurance as well as knocking off the pounds. Dance Trance, however, labels its style as more street dance, which does not necessarily follow traditional, standardized dance techniques. For those interested in changing up their workout, Dance Trance's different angle on traditional dance moves may be a good break from your norm. Dance Trance also offers a Platinum program designed for seniors ages 55 and up, or for those interested in a low-impact program.

    Tips

    • If your body gets used to the same routine you could see a plateau in your profess. It's a good idea to change up your routine every four to six weeks.