Did you know dancing burns more calories than running?
Plus, let’s be honest, it is so much more fun too. You get a proper workout while listening to your favourite tunes, having a good laugh at yourself when you mess up and building up all the endorphins. It’s as much about the mind as it is the body.
You’re in a room full of people wanting to have fun – it’s not meant to be taken too seriously. If that’s what you want, then you can go to a proper dance studio with the pros. Our favourites are those where you can just leave all dance shame at the door and get into the zone. It doesn’t matter if you look like a fool – as long as you’re having a good time.
Because fitness should be fun. The pain of working out is far too over-emphasised and glorified these days. Much like stress and over-working have become social currency, so has the pain of exercising. Reject that way of thinking and actually enjoy your workout. Try out one if these dance classes and thank us later. You won’t regret it.
Gymbox
Lacking any rhythm and soul? Gymbox’s dance classes really help with that. Learn how to whine, roll, drop, rock and isolate your body at their Dancehall classes – getting to know those hips of yours along the way. We’re also huge fans of their Shyway classes held at the Old Street location. Born straight out of the ’70s underground club scene, Shway is a full body dance using footwork, hip and chest isolations with distinctive and ultra-powerful arms! It’s all about self-expression and embracing your own personal power while working out. Dressing up for these one’s is definitely encouraged too.
Various City locations including those in Bank, Old Street, Holborn, Farringdon and Cannon Street.
gymbox.com
City Academy
These guys offer the most diverse range of dance classes – about 30 of them. So there’s absolutely no excuse for not finding one that fits. Those totally afraid of their feet should start out with the Absolute Beginners Dance classes which are all about getting your confidence and coordination up so you can really take advantage of their other classes. Try out ballet, ballroom, Bollywood and belly dancing classes (that’s just the B’s) or get around their more workout focused Dance Fitness Bootcamp. Here, you burn fat, build muscle and improve flexibility with a group of people having a genuinely good time.
Various locations
city-academy.com
Seen on Screen
So many dance classes focus on recreating music videos and famous dance routines, but few compare to Seen on Screen. They’ve perfected their methods of teaching. And you don’t have to be a Beyoncé level pro to enjoy it – all they ask is you have a big give-it-a-go attitude. So much of dancing is about just diving right into it and having no shame. Start things off with their commercial class before moving up to some of the more intense 90-minute workshops which focus on a particular theme or artist. They’ll quickly build you up to be a proper dancer in no time, eventually get you into their masterclasses.
Mob45, 20 Farringdon Road EC1M 3AP
seenonscreen.dance
The Flamenco Academy
The perfect class to get you out of your comfort zone, the Flamenco Academy gives all levels a rounded experience and education of flamenco. Whether you take part in a beginner or intermediate class, the teacher will focus on strengthen your moves while boosting your confidence. Your speed and power will improve in no time and you’ll be flouncing your new skills to everyone you know. Now, where to buy a red dress?
David Game College, 31 Jewry Street EC3N 2ET
flamencoacademy.co.uk
Frame
This gym centres everything around fitness classes designed to make you sweat and enjoy your workout at the same time – and their lively dance classes are no exception. From classes themed around raving, the ‘90s, and even starring in a music video, it is safe to say there is something for all playlists here. Just be prepared to give it absolutely everything and have a roaring time doing so.
Various locations including Angel and Shoreditch
moveyourframe.com
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