Dance fitness classes for beginners

If you are looking for a new way to get fit taking a dance class could be the right option for you. Dance classes such as zumba, pole fitness and hip-hop allow you to exercise in a fun environment which you can join alone or with friends. A wide range of dance classes are available around Ireland in gyms, schools and local community centres.

What are the benefits of taking a dance class?

Dancing is a great exercise option because of the variety of classes to choose from. The health benefits include: 

• Helps to maintain a healthy weight 
• Lowers blood pressure 
• Reduces stress
• Tones muscle and builds strenght 
• It can improve flexibility and balance
• Great way to meet people and enjoy exercise

If you are looking to take up a dance class take a look at your local community centre and see what they have on offer. Colleges, schools and gyms also run dance classes so regardless of where you live in the country there should be an option available for you.

Hip-hop dancing 

Hip-hop is a style of dance performed to hip-hop music, that emerged out of hip-hop culture. It was made popular in the 1970s in North America. Hip-hop dance involves a lot of different types of moves, including breaking, locking and popping. It involves moving your body vigorously, using balance, strength and flexibility.

Whether you’re already a great dancer or not, anyone can learn to do hip-hop dancing, and it’s a great, fun way to get fit, while listening to some great music.

Finding a class

There are hip hop classes all over Ireland. A quick Google will show where your nearest one is. If you can’t find a class near you, why not check out some YouTube tutorials?

Zumba 

Zumba is an aerobic exercise that is a high-energy dance fitness class. Throughout class the instructor teaches you choreographed dance moves to different parts of songs with non-verbal cues normally. Unlike traditional dance, you don’t have to worry about doing the dance moves precisely because Zumba is more of a fun, free flowing fitness class.  

What happens at a Zumba class? 

For your first class try to arrive ten minutes early so you can go up to the instructor and let them know that this is your first class – the instructor will be able to give you helpful tips and advice before starting which could make starting Zumba all the more easier.

Zumba classes are normally for an hour with a warm up and cool down followed by stretching. Most of the instructors of Zumba make their dances simple and easy to follow so you will be able to catch on after a class or two.

The first five to ten minutes of class are the hardest because that is when you are figuring out your instructor’s cueing – the majority of Zumba instructors use non-verbal cues to tell you what to do and when to do it, but don’t worry, there are often only 6-10 cues and they can be easily picked up after a while.

When going to your first Zumba class remember that it is okay to take breaks. Although there are often short 30-60 second water breaks in between songs – still feel free to take water breaks when needed and pop back in whenever you are done.

To find a Zumba class near you click here.

Pole fitness classes 

Pole fitness is a type of exercise that comes from pole dancing. It involves doing various tricks and moves with a pole, that help you find your balance and strenght. Pole fitness involves doing all sorts of different moves and dances that involve a pole. Check out a class near you, and the instructor will be able to advise you. There are lots of studios around the country where you can take pole fitness classes now. Some gyms offer classes too.

Who would it suit?

Many people find that pole fitness is a particularly great way to improve confidence. It can also be a great way to meet people. It can be fun and involves dancing, so is a great one for music fans.

What should I bring to a dance class? 

• Suitable clothes that are comfortable and breathable such as shorts or yoga leggings
• A water bottle and a towel
• Comfortable shoes such as runners
• The cost of the class (this will vary depending on the class you are taking)