From ages 2-15, I took dance classes weekly. It included hip hop, tap, and jazz, and I enjoyed it year after year.
Because I loved dancing growing up and my affinity for group exercise classes, you'd think I might enjoy dance workout classes, right? You'd have been wrong. I'm not saying I never do them, but they're really not my favorite, probably because the options were few. Zumba never did it for me; it felt forced and on occasion boring--the same moves, no matter what the music. There are some dance exercise classes that are great, but, as always, it depends entirely on the instructor.
Guess what? I've found a FANTASTIC instructor.
Lindi Duesenberg founded Dance Motivation Fitness (DMF) in January 2013 (just 7 months ago!) and it seems to be off to a great start. Last week, her team reached out, inviting me to sample the new DMF workout at DANY Studio in New York City, and I am so glad I said yes.
From the website:
"Powered by awesome music and inspirational motivation, DMF will drive you through 50 minutes of heart pumping cardio and strength exercise that will leave you feeling empowered, strong, and HAPPY! After all, if it's not fun, it's not worth it! Created by Lindi Duesenberg, a leading NYC fitness instructor and dancer known for her motivation and mind/body approach to wellness, DMF has something for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level."
Their promo video explains and shows what DMF is all about:
Dance? Motivation? Music? Fun? All sounds good!
When I arrived, I was--for some reason--surprised to see it was a legitimate dance studio. I'd become so accustomed to gym settings, that the studio environment was encouraging. A real dancer's studio, so we just may pass for real dancers!
Speaking of real dancers, DMF founder Lindi was outside the room greeting us as we arrived. She was smiling and upbeat, radiating energy. She very quickly learned and remembered all guests' names, which later proved useful as she cheered us on and complimented our moves individually (as you'll see in the clip below).
We gathered in the studio, were offered samples of VROU enhanced, flavored waters (not my thing, but others seemed to enjoy the sweet refreshment), and then came together to begin.
The website describes DMF as "The Ultimate Dance-party Workout," and on that, it delivered. Right from the warm-up song, I knew I liked DMF. Throughout the full 50 minutes, I continued to think, "I really like this!!" throughout the other dance songs, the leg-burning workout portion, the salsa, the kickboxing-inspired song, and the cool down.
The songs came one after the next, and Lindi instructed us as we went, going through a combination just once slowly before kicking it up for the next few run-throughs. We had plenty of chances to get it right, and she encouraged us to let loose and just move. It did not feel like moving to work out, it was moving to DANCE, dancing to the music. Still, we worked up a strong sweat--in fact, more of a sweat than I typically work up in dance fitness classes, because this time I felt like it was just a dance party, and Lindi's motivating words made me want to give it 110%.
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| Gettin' my groove on |
The songs came one after the next, and Lindi instructed us as we went, going through a combination just once slowly before kicking it up for the next few run-throughs. We had plenty of chances to get it right, and she encouraged us to let loose and just move. It did not feel like moving to work out, it was moving to DANCE, dancing to the music. Still, we worked up a strong sweat--in fact, more of a sweat than I typically work up in dance fitness classes, because this time I felt like it was just a dance party, and Lindi's motivating words made me want to give it 110%.
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| During the serious strength song |
The only time that dropped to 80%? When I snuck out to take some video for YOU! I refused to budge during the strength portion (give me those lunges!) or when I was entirely immersed in the music, but did get some shots of a few combinations. Take a look:
You can see, it's fun and it's fitness. I was a red, sweaty mess by the end, and so sad it was over. I had a fantastic time and cannot wait to go back and rock to the music once more.
GIVEAWAY TIME!
Interested in trying DMF for yourself?? Lindi has generously offered a free class to a lucky reader! If you're in or near (or plan to visit) the New York City area, enter below to win yourself a DMF class with Lindi! All you have to do is leave a comment below sharing your experience with dancing and fitness motivation. For more entries, follow DMF and Dare You To on various media channels.
Many ways to enter! One will win. Giveaway ends Monday (8/12) night at midnight (12:00am on Tuesday). Prize value expires at the end of 2013.
I really enjoyed my DMF workout, and hope that you will, too! Learn more at DMFnyc.com, where you can also check schedules, studios, and pricing options. You can also receive inspirational words from Lindi on Twitter by following @DMFnyc. Dare you to!
Do you enjoy dance workouts? Why or what not? What kinds have you found the most fun or effective?
I've been meaning to try this class. After reading your review, I can't wait!
ReplyDeleteEvann
Awesome! it was so much fun
DeleteOh I wish I lived in NYC!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteDancing is one enjoying way to burn calories because it is a cardiovascular exercise, you could try personalize trainer in No Excuse Fitness if you are bored in dancing. For more more information you may visit this site at noexcusefitness.com or call this number (949) 313-4034.
ReplyDeleteI love to dance and this sounds like a fun way to exercise at the same time! Thanks for all your great ideas!
ReplyDeleteI've been wanting to try this class! Sounds like so much fun!
ReplyDeleteI tried this class for the first time last week, too. As someone who does Physiue 57 on a regular basis, this class was a great workout and fun change to my normal routine.
ReplyDeleteZumba got boring for me real fast, good to know this is nothing like it!
ReplyDeleteI did your class in Bridgehampton this weekend & loved it! I love the motivation & your sincerity in pushing us to be our strongest, thank you for making a fun work out!
ReplyDeleteDance is a great way to stay fit, anyways if you are interested to hire a personal trainer you could visit noexcusefitness.com in the internet or simply contact them through there telephone number (949) 313-4034.
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This is a great way to workout. I am also in dance fitness group and it is amazing. We learn the choreography and dance on many types such as hip hop or ballet. gym riyadh
ReplyDeleteI feel that I do get better sleep from the those complexes in the supplement, and that my immune system works a little better overall.
ReplyDeleteI got inspired with DMF, it is a good for mind/body strategy to wellness and make yourself well.fitness
ReplyDeleteDance motivation fitness, it's quiet nice way to get your best health and also improve your mental health.chrishines83
ReplyDelete