Dance workouts to get you party fit

Tired of pounding away at the treadmill? Now, have fun while trying to get into shape with an unconventional workout — ‘dancercises’ that are getting popular owing to their mass appeal.
Grooving while you burn the calories is a great way to build cardio fitness plus learn new moves to music. The best part? If you have two left feet, you can still do this.Here are the moves to try...
Belly dance
What it’s about:
Hips certainly don’t lie, and if you want to get into that hot-looking LBD this New Year, get slim hips and a tummy to go with it through belly dancing. Says dance expert Ritambhara Sahni, “Belly dancing provides a workout that improves muscle tone and enhances flexibility. You are isolating and moving very tiny muscle and the variety of these movements can quicken the process of toning the core area. You shape up 10 times faster than the calorie burn and it sculpts the core. The movements: from the hip circle, to figure eight, core undulation (wave movement) and belly roll totally gets rid of the flab and tightens the stomach.” Gradually increase speed and repetition of moves as you go forward, for better core-toning results. It also induces relaxation.
Zumba
What it’s about:
The high-energy Latin dance workout can burn more calories than aerobics, pilates and kickboxing! “After a warm-up, you dance to a blend of salsa and hip hop. It works to tone the arm, thighs, calves and abs. It’s also great for the respiratory system as it increases the oxygen intake as you dance. Anyone can do this; modifications can be made for those suffering from health issues. It’s apt to get you in a party mood too,” says Zumba expert Shalini Bhargava
Hooping
What it’s about:
You might have tried spinning a hoop around yourself for fun, but did you know this is also being increasingly looked at as a fitness trend? First Lady Michelle Obama was photographed hooping on the White House lawns, and talk show host Ellen De Generes said it slimmed her down for a movie. Swati Shah, who teaches it to city folks, says, “Hooping has several benefits. You burn body fat, it conditions the waist and builds hand and waist coordination plus improves spinal flexibility. Hooping also boosts circulation levels and helps you get toned abs. And while you’re working out, enjoy a fun dance,” she adds.
Other quickies
Spinning and pilates balls are also apt ways to revitalise your workout and make it enjoyable. Do them as per your level of difficulty. Pole dancing also works well on abdominals and teaches muscle control.