THE word “aerobic” on its own, literally means “with oxygen”. But it comes alive when used as an adjective to identify a form of exercise that combines rhythmic dance-like movements with stretching and strength-training routines with the goal of improving flexibility, muscular strength and cardiovascular fitness.
It is generally performed to music and may be practised in a group setting led by a certified instructor or a fitness professional.
Formal aerobics classes are divided into different levels of intensity and complexity, and may allow participants to select their levels of participation according to their experience and fitness abilities. Most gyms offer a variety of aerobics classes.
Below is a compilation of popular dance aerobics classes that are currently being offered by Celebrity Fitness Malaysia:
1. African dance
African natives traditionally used dance as a form of self-expression. Most of them were hunters or farmers, so these dances take you back to the essentials of their old, primitive days, says the class instructor Stefan Brecard.
Brecard explains that the high-impact dance workout combines aerobics with traditional dances from North African countries like Congo and Senegal.
Average amount of calories burned in an hour: 400-500
2. Belly dance
Belly dance is a Western-coined name for a traditional Middle Eastern dance, the raqs sharqi. However, the term in itself is somewhat of a misnomer as every part of the body is involved in the dance, with the hips being the most featured body part, along with the waist and mid-section area.
Although contemporary forms of the dance are usually performed by women, Belly dance has origins in male forms of performance. Sexy Columbian singer Shakira has catapulted belly dancing into mainstream culture in recent years.
Average amount of calories burned in an hour: 350
3. Capoiera
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| Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art form that combines selfdefence movements, acrobatics and dance. |
It was developed by slaves who used it to disguise the fact that they were practising fight moves.
Capoeira is “played” (it is known as the “game” or jogo) in a circle called a roda, accompanied by music and singing. Only the hands and feet touch the floor.
Average amount of calories burned in an hour: 400-500
4. Fun Steps (Step Aerobics)
Fun Steps (or more commonly known as Step Aerobics) is a mid-intensity workout that is distinguished from other types of aerobic exercises by its use of an elevated platform (the step).
The height can be tailored to individual needs by inserting risers under the step.
The exercise, which helps boost coordination skills, also provides flexibility training that enhances joint movements and is suitable for all ages.
Average amount of calories burned in an hour: 500-600
5. Zumba Fitness
Zumba is a dance fitness method that combines salsa and other Latin dance moves.
It is usually performed to Latin and world music beats, and is choreographed to allow people of any fitness or dance experience to enjoy a high-octane workout.
The Zumba is intended to provide a large calorie burn through aerobic activity that is interspersed with interval training.
Average amount of calories burned in an hour: 500-600.
6. DNA
The average amount of calories you can burn in Celebrity Fitness’ Dance N’ Attitude (DNA) classes are:
·DNA Seduce (a blend of jazz, street dances and burlesque): 300-400
·DNA Raw (a mix of hip hop dances): 400
·DNA Flavour (a mix of salsa, mambo, tango and cha cha dances): 400
·DNA Insanity (a mix of freestyle and modern pop-style dances): 500 – Fiona Ho
http://thestar.com.my/health/story.asp?file=/2012/4/8/health/11051160&sec=health
