Tips for a Cardio-Workout
January 21, 2010
Cardio-dance is loads of fun, if it is done properly. Here are some tips to really enjoy your workout.
The most important and basic thing is to dress properly and comfortably. Take care to wear good footwear, or else you could end up injuring your feet.
Cardio-dance involves moving sideways rather than forward; hence you really need the shoes that are used especially for cardio-dance. If you are not too sure about cardio-dancing, you could use cross trainers until you decide if you want to continue with this kind of workout. For women, the right kind of bra is also important. Ensure it has good support and is designed for exercising comfortably.
Arrive early for your first class and talk to the instructors about your comfort level, so that they can help you out better. Sign up for a basic class for beginners initially or at least a level one. Do not let fancy names and numbers tempt you.
Once you get bored or find the class unchallenging, move on to the next level, or try a different type such as funk or step. Initially, just follow what the instructor does. Do not try to think or figure out what you are doing, as it can get pretty confusing. Just copy each step and follow in the mirror, if there’s one.
Most instructors try not to let the routine get monotonous; so once the basics are mastered, they might add a step or turn or twist to the existing step. This change could send you into a panic, but just relax and try it out. If you are confused, just stick to the original step until you figure this one out.
The next step would be including hand movements to your leg movements, but these are just additional. The hand movements are beneficial, as they are good for your heart and add intensity to your workout, but they could be very confusing. Master your footwork first, and then go for the hands.
Weight training maybe added to your workout; but nothing too tedious, just light weights. If you want muscles, then you need to focus on the weights. Do not strain yourself too much. Also, some instructors can be quite enthusiastic and ask you to scream, shout or sing along with your workout.
If you are not comfortable with this aspect, then don’t do it. Initially, you could try exercising at home with the help of videos, and if you like the workout, then you can go in for classes. With home videos, take the basic one and exercise caution.
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