Hip Hop Aerobics: Does It Really Work?

As a fitness professional I am always asked,”Does this fitness program work”, “What can one really get out of this program” or “Should I even waste my money”?  These are all valid questions to ask especially if you are leery about taking a Hip-hop fitness class or buying a hip-hop fitness DVD.  If it seems like Hip-hop workouts are becoming more popular, it’s no illusion. One of the hottest fitness trends in 2009 fitness is dance-based specialty workouts such as hip-hop aerobics. If you are not familiar, hip-hop aerobics is essentially a dance-based class that utilizes dance moves to develop a heart thumping total body workout built on bouncing, hopping, twisting, sliding, and grooving to current and classic hip-hop music.  Today there are many programs and products on the market such as Hip Hop Abs, Zumba Fitness, Hip Hop Hustle, and classes at your local gym or dance studio.

Does it really work?
In considering whether Hip Hop fitness workouts are effective we need to determine if any improvements can be made in one’s overall fitness level. Basically, will this work out challenge your cardiovascular system and improve strength?  These factors are largely determined by the class format and experience of the instructor.  In order to reap the maximum benefits of an aerobic workout the class should be structured to get you into your target heart rate zone.  An effective hip hop fitness workout will raise your heart rate within your target heart rate zone for the majority of the class. (For more on Target Heart Rate Zone).  In terms of resistance training, a quality Hip Hop workout should incorporate moves that improve core, upper and lower body strength.  A hip hop workout that incorporates a host of moves such as hops, slides, lunges, squats, and floor moves can indeed improve overall strength.  The more explosive the move, the more one can expect to increase strength in major muscle groups such as the legs, abs, back, and shoulders.

What’s the fun factor?
Exercise should be fun. A sign of a good hip hop workout is one that’s so much fun you don’t realize you are actually exercising. I often recommend to my clients to incorporate something you enjoy as a part of your regular fitness routine.  The more you enjoy it, the more you’ll do it and the better the chance you’ll see results such as higher energy levels, weight loss, improved strength, and better self confidence.

Take a Class or Buy a DVD? 
If the fun factor alone is not enough to motivate you’ll want to consider attending a class or buying a home based hip hop work.  The primary benefits to doing a home DVD workout are convenience and cost.  The drawbacks to home DVD’s workouts are they lack variety, the energy of a group atmosphere, and there is no one to hold you accountable.  If staying motivated is a challenge for you and if you are looking to meet new people, attending an actual class may be more beneficial than purchasing a hip-hop DVD workout. 

All in all, hip hop workouts can be a lot fun and they will certainly cause you to break a sweat.  Whether they are effective at improving your fitness levels depends on the intensity of the class and the extent to which you attend them regularly.  If you enjoy music and dancing any high energy workout with a mix popular music and unique moves will keep you coming back and will ultimately put you on right path to achieving your health and fitness goals.