Half-hour of cardio, followed by yoga and relaxation over and over… If the cycle has become boring, fitness experts have a way out. The workout gurus are now recommending combinations of various dance forms that combine effectively with cardio and yoga exercises… and, of course, de-stressing!
From Hollywood’s Natalie Portman, to the likes of Aishwarya Rai, Malaika Arora Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, stars have been known to use various forms of dance to stay in shape. In fact, SRK is now reportedly into belly dancing to maintain his washboard abs! From the desi steps of masala bhangra, to the sensuous moves of ballet and salsa, these creative workout patterns have great benefits, say fitness gurus.
“Dance is a form of energy. Combining dance and cardio is an ideal way to burn calories… and also keep boredom away! It’s more fun than hitting the gym,” says Satyajit Chaurasia, celeb fitness trainer, adding, “Those who are naturally good dancers would especially enjoy such workouts. Zumba is the most popular category of dance workouts.” Some forms of dance are aerobic in nature — like jive, hip-hop and jazz. Combined with simple cardio exercises, these require high energy levels, while some forms like ballet and waltz are ideal for those who prefer slower workouts.
Payal Gidwani Tiwari, fitness guru, author and trainer to Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan, says, “Most dance workouts are high-impact workouts, resulting in overall enhancement of muscles. Combos are typically aerobic in nature and hugely beneficial.” Says fitness expert T. Udaya Kumar, “Toning exercises and muscle strengthening exercises along with dance forms are best for those who are targeting weight-loss and increasing metabolism.”
Dancing also enhances emotional well-being and psychological balance, according to Micky Mehta, India’s holistic health guru. He says, “It’s a recreational way to fitness. Dance as workout is based in the concept of enhancing body, mind and soul.” However, experts also caution about some dangers. Payal points out, “Ballet and jive are extremely difficult forms of dance, so one has to be trained in them from a young age to be able to pull off these workouts. If not, it could lead to physical ailments such as knee and back pain. In fact, those who are above 35 years of age are advised against opting for such workouts.”
Satyajit, fitness trainer, adds, “Considering dance requires high levels of energy, people must be careful to keep themselves hydrated, sipping on glucose between workouts, to avoid completely getting drained.”
