Dance your way to super-relaxed FITNESS
It’s so much livelier than gym
We all know that exercise and being fit is part of having a healthy lifestyle. But are you the type of person that hates to go to the gym?
As a result of boredom with traditional exercise, many fitness fanatics are now switching over to dancing. Not only is dancing a stress reliever and therapeutic, but it is a great form of exercise due to its aerobic and anaerobic movements. According to Debbie Calder, a professional dancer and teacher from Just Move dance fitness studio in Cape Town, there are endless ways of getting fit through dancing.
She explains that each dance class has a different purpose and health benefits.
DANCE FITNESS CLASS
“This class is a combination of fun dance cardio routines followed by core strengthening exercises and stretching. The class is aimed at strengthening, toning and sculpting the entire body.”
Traditionally done by professional dancers, ballet and contemporary dancing such as jazz, lyrical and classical ballet, are now being turned into fitness dances.
CONTEMPORARY DANCE CLASS
Everyone wants to have the perfect summer body without sweating at a conventional gym to get to the desired fitness level.
That could be achieved in a number of ways, such as a body conditioning dance class. This class involves a sequence of exercises aimed at strengthening, toning and lengthening your muscles. It focuses on using correct alignment, strengthening legs and core; and increasing flexibility.
POLE DANCING
Natasha Williams from Body Mind Studios in Johannesburg and the Pole Dance Sports Association of South Africa said pole dancing classes are fun, sexy and will leave you with a great feeling of confidence.
“Pole dancing not only tones and helps you to lose weight, but the strength you build will give you a stronger core, stronger heart muscles and give your body the best work-out ever.”
For pole dancing for beginners, she suggests a pole basics that is great for those who want a slightly slowerpaced class.
For those who are feeling more daring, she suggests a sensual fitness. “Its like an aerobics class, but without the jumping.
“Putting together a routine using feminine movements that work the rest of your body. Focusing on abs, booty, love handles and thighs, and all those yummy areas that women have.” The core benefits of these classes are toning, losing weight, core strength, conditioning and faster and more engaging exercise.
Dancing is a stress reliever and a great form of exercise