Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Should You Try Dance Aerobics?

Many people really don't dance that much these days. This is probably especially true after getting married and having a family, just due to the sheer lack of free time.

Because of this many people feel very clumsy when they dance. So why do dance aerobics?

One of the simplest advantages is that many people find it fun. The music adds interest to an activity that might otherwise bore you. And moving to a rhythm encourages you to keep up with the group, to keep trying. It also just feels good.

As with any other aerobic exercise, dance aerobics is good for your metabolism. It gets your heart rate up and works your muscles. Some steps help with your balance.

As with any workout, your clothes should be comfortable and your shoes suited to the activity. It's always important to correctly support your feet during physical activity. In addition to being comfortable, your clothes should help to wick away sweat.

There are different levels of classes you can take at your local gym. Talk to the trainers and figure out which one is best for you. You don't want to take a class that will push you so hard that quitting makes more sense than continuing to try. A good trainer will be able to help you figure out which class you would like to take. And if the class doesn't suit your style, consider trying a different one. Just don't give up on the workout as a whole.

The other challenge is getting over your self consciousness. When you don't know the steps, it's easy to feel embarrassed and clumsy. It can help, however, to remember that everyone else started out not knowing the steps, and that most of your classmates are solely interested in their own workout.

Take your time in figuring out what works best for you. Some people need to listen to the instructor to figure out what to do. Others do fine just watching the steps. But especially as you're learning, don't demand of yourself the intensity your instructor may perform. They know you will be working out at your level, and you can work up to the full intensity over time.

A good dance aerobics class may be one of the most "fun" things you do at a gym if it's a good match for you. Enjoying your workout is one of the best ways to get yourself to keep going back.

Stephanie Foster blogs at http://www.timeforexercise.com/exercise/ about keeping fit as a family. Get more family exercise tips at her site.

ballroom dance music

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