Dance Inspired Workouts

Whether you have rhythm or not, when the music starts, you can't help but tap those feet or sway to the beat. Exercise can seem daunting, but when your favourite tunes are playing, moving doesn't seem like a workout. Dancing can always put a smile on your face. It's fun and when you are lost in the music, it often doesn't matter whether you think you are ready to be Jlo's back up dancer or Jlo herself! 

To help you connect to your inner pop star and stay fit,  we found some of our favourite dance inspired workouts. 


Barre Fitness is a hybrid exercise class. It combines ballet inspired movements with elements of Pilates, dance, yoga and strength training. With dance moves such as plies along with static stretches, this type of exercise focuses on high reps of small range movements. It helps strengthen and tone your muscles without increasing bulk and it also improves your posture (which I am sure we could all use from sitting at our desks all day). Check out Barre Fitness for some online videos to get you started. 

Zumba is a form of aerobic dance exercise that features the use of Latin music and dance rhythms to create a party like atmosphere during the class. Zumba is known to relieve stress, great for cardio, improving coordination and is truly fun. Studies have shown that 2-4 days per week and moderation can be good for your body and heart. You have to be careful and not overdue it. To check out some Zumba classes and you won't be disappointed. 
 
Mind-Body Flow exercises typically use yoga or martial arts in a flowing routine. This is great for improving your flexibility, reducing stress and keeping your heart healthy. These classes are usually low-impact and good for beginners. It's a great way to learn how to listen to your body and relax your mind. There are many Mind-Body Flow videos online to check out before committing to a class in person. 

Cardio Dance is a popular fitness choice. It will surely make you break a sweat. They often focus on a specific style like hip hop and depending on the instructor, it can include some toning or strenthening. These Cardio Dance classes are a great way to escape and free your mind and body. It's like clubbing with your friends without a care in the world - while getting that great workout. 

Sensual Dance Classes are also available and can add a little bit of risqué to your routine if you so choose. These classes can range from burlesque dance classes, to pole dancing to twerk classes. These can leave you feeling empowered while teaching you to focus on control and stamina. There are online classes that you can try to get you out of your usual comfort zone and challenge yourself. 


​At the OLVE,  we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. This site offers health, fitness tips and is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional. Do not start this fitness program if your physician or health care provider advises against it. If you experience faintness, dizziness, pain or shortness of breath at any time while exercising you should stop immediately. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have read on this site. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. For more information please see our terms and conditions.  

Photo credit: Juriel Majeed on Unsplash