How do I Choose the Best Jazzercise® Classes?

Choosing the best Jazzercise® classes is a matter of determining what type of instructor you prefer, the kind of results you want to receive, how much time you can commit to an exercise program and your personal fitness level. Finding a class that matches your needs in all of these things is possible, because Jazzercise® comes in several formats. Each one is designed for specific fitness goals.

The best Jazzercise® classes offer a total body workout that borrows moves from jazz dance, kickboxing, hip hop and yoga, to name a few. Additionally, classes are designed for various fitness levels and ages. Classes typically run for 60 minutes each. You can expect to burn as many as 500 calories during an hour-long class.

Overall, Jazzercise® classes have a variety of benefits. The program can help you lose weight, tone muscles and improve cardiovascular fitness. Jazzercise® also can improve your overall health by giving you increased energy and flexibility, along with a greater sense of well-being. Choosing the best Jazzercise® classes simply means finding ones that offer the benefits that you are seeking.

Jazzercise® classes you can choose from include low impact, step, circuit training, body sculpting, personal training with weights and an express format that is 30 minutes. Some classes are designed specifically for seniors or children. The team dance class is geared toward teenagers and incorporates today’s popular dance moves. Generally, Jazzercise® can be used by people of all fitness levels.

The instructor will play a key role when you are choosing the best Jazzercise® classes. All instructors are required to be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as well as other areas such as basic physiology, anatomy and injury prevention. In addition to having good knowledge and technique, the best instructor for you will mesh with your personality. If possible, try out a class or two before committing to it for the long term.

While evaluating a class, ask yourself if you like the instructor’s approach. Maybe you want someone who is very motivating without sounding like a drill sergeant. On the other hand, you might prefer someone who is very stern and demanding. Some instructors are more subdued in their approach, and others are extremely bubbly.

Also look for an instructor who teaches how to monitor your heart rate and stresses its importance. Each person has a target heart rate that should be maintained while working out. This helps ensure that you are getting the best fat-burning capabilities from the workout without overexerting yourself.

The amount of exertion you feel during exercise also is important. You should feel as though you are pushing yourself while working out. Talking should be somewhat easy, however. If you cannot talk or breathe properly, it’s time to slow down a little.

If you are unable to fit Jazzercise® classes into your schedule, digital video discs (DVDs) of the program are also available. DVDs also can be used to supplement in-person Jazzercise® classes. As always, before starting any new exercise program, remember to consult a physician.