Everyone can dance! So, why is it that so many of us feel self-conscious about it?
Many people consider attending a dance class at some point in their adult lives. Few actually go through with it, though. Perhaps it’s because they think they don’t have the skills or are nervous about what others will think.
Pro tip: Everyone who has ever done anything started out as a beginner. If you never try, you’ll never know what could have been! Dancing can add whole-body benefits to your weekly workout routine.
That’s why we are giving you the lowdown on how exactly to incorporate dance into your life. We’re breaking down different class styles, what you need to bring, and what routine will yield the best results.
Why Dance?
Dance is an excellent workout for anyone who wants to try something new! Going to a dance class will elevate your heart rate and make you sweat. But dance is more than just a cardio workout. All dance forms require you to use muscles that you might not use in your everyday life. It truly is a full-body form of exercise.
A big part of dancing is cultivating body awareness. Using isolations and whole body movement will give you a better sense of how all of your muscles work together. You might find that you develop better posture, flexibility, and coordination by regularly attending dance classes.
Beyond the physical aspects, dance can be a great way to learn to express yourself. Dance is unique in that it requires you to develop athleticism and artistry at the same time. Through movement, you may find that your stress levels are lowered, and you are better able to process big emotions.
What Type Is Right For Me
Ballet
Ballet is considered the foundation of all dance. It is a highly technical form that will help you understand dance basics.
In a typical ballet class, you can expect to start with a barre warmup. A teacher will guide you through combinations that will help you work on your balance and articulation. The second half of your class will take place in the center. This is where you will work on leaps and turns and more intricate footwork combinations.
Ballet is a great way to build strengths throughout your whole body. You will develop muscle in your core, legs, and arms. Because of the emphasis on precision and technique, ballet is a great dance style for beginners who might be a bit nervous about jumping into a class that is more focused on choreography.
Before you attend, be sure to look into the dance studio’s dress code. Ballet classes often require that you wear a leotard and tights so that the instructor can better see the lines of your body.
Tap
Tap is a fun dance style that can be enjoyed by all ages! Part dance form, part instrument, tap dance is a great style for anyone with a musical streak.
Tap dance is a great cardio workout that will help develop the muscles in your legs. Get ready to feel those calves burn! Before going to your first tap class, you will need to invest in a pair of tap shoes. While you don’t have to drop a ton of money on your first pair, a quality shoe really makes a difference in sound. We recommend buying a shoe from companies like Bloch. Be sure to avoid choosing a shoe with a split sole, as a beginner.
For class, you can wear whatever clothes you want. Just make sure you are able to get a full range of movement in them.
Zumba
Zumba is a great choice for dance newbies! Designed to be approachable to everyone, Zumba does not require any particular technique for you to get a good workout in!
Zumba is a high-intensity cardio dance workout inspired by Latin and World dances. Dancers follow the lead of their instructor, who takes them through moves that build strength, balance, and endurance.
Zumba classes come in a range of focuses, from the ab-centric Zumba Sentao to the traditional Zumba Step classes. You can find classes online or in person in your community.
For a Zumba class, no special equipment is needed. Your typical workout wear and shoes will work just fine!
Jazz
Jazz dance was at its most popular in the ’50s to the late 1990s. If you’ve ever seen a Broadway show, you’ve likely seen elements of Jazz dance incorporated into it.
Jazz is one of the most versatile dance styles, with every instructor adding their own flair. If you like a high-energy class with all the toning benefits of ballet, jazz dance might be right for you!
For Jazz class, dancers are typically asked to bring a pair of jazz shoes. These shoes feature a padded toe and heel that allow you to turn easily, while still pointing your foot. Jazz shoes can be bought in a more traditional slipper-style or in a sneaker style.
Hip Hop
Like jazz, Hip Hop’s style is really dependent on the instructor. What is guaranteed? A full-body workout that will focus on body isolations. Hip-Hop is a great way to train all of the muscles in your body in a way that feels fun.
For a hip-hop class, the dress code is pretty flexible. Just be sure to bring a pair of sneakers that you won’t slip in.
How Often Should I Go?
Like all workouts, consistency will yield the most results. In general, we would recommend attending 2-3 classes a week. You’ll also see great results if you implement cross-training. Things like yoga, pilates, and weight lifting, will help you build the muscles and flexibility you’ll need to continue advancing.
If your goal is to develop as a dancer and not just build muscle, you should take a wide variety of classes. You’ll quickly learn that the skills you learn from one style can transfer to another to make you a better, more well-rounded dancer.
Have you ever tried incorporating dance into your fitness routine? What style did you like the best? Share with us in the comments below!
