Exercise is easier to maintain when it feels enjoyable. While some people love running, cycling or working out in the gym, others are more motivated by music and the energy of exercising with a group. This is where dance fitness can be a great choice.
From September, Bluecoat Sports is introducing a Dance Fit class on Tuesday evenings and Friday mornings. Included in our memberships and pay-as-you-go, the class combines energetic aerobic routines with music ranging from classics to current hits. You follow the instructor, enjoy the rhythm and keep moving at a level that feels right for you.
Whether you already enjoy dance classes or are looking for a fun way to become more active, dance fitness can support your physical health, mental health and overall fitness. In this guide, we explore these benefits and how to make dance fitness part of your weekly routine.
Find out more about Dance Fit on our aerobic classes page, and check the Bluecoat Sports class timetable for the latest session times. If you have any questions, please call reception on 01403 247572.
What is dance fitness?
Dance fitness brings together aerobic exercise, music and dance-inspired movement to create an energetic full-body workout. Rather than teaching one particular dance style or preparing participants for a performance, the focus is on staying active, raising the heart rate and enjoying the session.
You don’t need any previous dance experience to take part. Beginners can follow the instructor, become familiar with movements over time and work at a pace that suits them. It also doesn’t matter if you miss a step or lose the rhythm occasionally – the aim is to keep moving, enjoy the music and get the most from the workout.
The physical benefits of dance fitness
Dance fitness is an enjoyable way to work the whole body while improving general fitness. As the routines combine continuous movement with changes in pace and direction, each class can support several areas of physical health benefits.
Improves cardiovascular fitness
Moving continuously to music challenges the cardiovascular system and can help improve stamina over time. It can also provide an alternative to running, cycling or using cardio equipment.
If you find repetitive exercise difficult to maintain, the combination of music and changing routines may make it easier to stay active throughout the class.
Provides a full-body workout
Dance involves much more than moving your feet. Steps and changes of direction work the legs, while arm movements engage the shoulders and upper body. Maintaining good posture and controlling turns can also involve the core, creating a varied workout that can feel more engaging than using one exercise or piece of equipment.
Supports balance, coordination and agility
Following a dance routine can involve moving your arms and legs in different patterns, responding to changes in the music or adjusting direction quickly.
These movements can support balance, coordination and greater control over how your body moves. They may feel challenging at first, but they often become easier and more natural as you become more experienced.
Helps you stay active during the week
A scheduled class can make it easier to include regular physical activity in your routine. You don’t need to plan a workout, select exercises or count repetitions. You can simply arrive, follow the instructor and enjoy the session.
With Dance Fit taking place on Tuesday evenings and Friday mornings, you can choose the time that best fits around work, family and other commitments.
The mental and emotional benefits of dance fitness
The benefits of dance fitness are not limited to physical health. Music, movement and exercising with others can also make a positive difference to your mood, confidence and overall wellbeing.
Can boost your mood
An upbeat song, an energetic routine and the atmosphere of a group class can help make exercise feel positive and enjoyable. Completing the workout may also leave you feeling energised and with a sense of accomplishment.
As the focus is on moving to music, dance fitness can feel like great fun rather than simply another workout to complete.
Provides a break from everyday stress
Dance fitness requires you to focus on the instructor, the rhythm and the next movement. This can give your mind a break from work, responsibilities and other everyday pressures. Enjoyable physical activity can also support your overall wellbeing.
Builds confidence
Learning new routines and seeing what you can achieve can give you a real sense of accomplishment. Over time, you may feel more comfortable following the instructor, trying unfamiliar movements and trusting your ability to keep up with the class.
How music can support physical activity
Music plays an important role in dance fitness by setting the pace, shaping the energy of each routine and giving you something to move in time with.
Faster songs can encourage more energetic movement, while steadier tracks can provide time to recover. Following the beat may also make it easier to maintain a rhythm, stay focused on the routine and keep moving throughout the workout.
How to make Dance Fit part of your weekly routine
Dance Fit can be one of your cardiovascular workouts or part of a wider fitness plan alongside strength training, swimming, walking or other activities at Bluecoat Sports.
When planning your week, consider the type and intensity of your other workouts. For example, you may choose Dance Fit on a day when you want an energetic cardio session, then balance it with strength work, lower-intensity exercise or rest on other days.
The Tuesday evening and Friday morning sessions give you flexibility to choose the option that best suits your schedule and other commitments. Attending at a regular time can also make it easier to build the class into your routine and stay consistent.
Explore the Bluecoat Sports timetables to view our full range of classes and activities.
Summary
Dance fitness combines music, movement and aerobic exercise to create a fun, full-body workout. It can support cardiovascular fitness, coordination, balance, confidence and overall physical health, while also helping to boost your mood and provide a break from everyday stress.
The varied routines and group atmosphere can make physical activity feel more enjoyable and help people of different fitness levels stay motivated. As no previous dance experience is required, Dance Fit can be a great choice for beginners and anyone looking for a more social way to exercise.
Join the new Dance Fit class at Bluecoat Sports
Our new Dance Fit class begins in September and is suitable for anyone aged 14+. Included in our Bluecoat Sports memberships, it’s easy to add dance fitness to your weekly routine.
If you’re not yet a member, you can explore our membership options to join and access a wide range of fitness classes and facilities in the local area of Christ’s Hospital, Horsham.
Frequently asked questions
Is dancing good exercise?
Yes. Dancing can raise your heart rate, keep your body moving and provide an enjoyable full-body workout. Dance fitness routines can also be adapted to suit different fitness levels, abilities and levels of confidence.
Do you need dance experience for Dance Fit?
No. Dance Fit is an instructor-led fitness class rather than a formal dance lesson. You can follow the routines at your own pace, and it doesn’t matter if you miss a step. No experience of ballet, tap dancing, ballroom, salsa or other forms of dance is required.
What should I wear to a dance fitness class?
Choose lightweight, flexible sportswear that feels comfortable to move in, along with supportive indoor trainers. Bring a drink and a towel. No specialist dance clothing or equipment is needed.
