Edina Dance Classes Make Fitness Fun

Photo: Marshall Franklin Long

Masala Bhangra dance instructor Deepali Roth.

Yes, you need to stay fit, but don’t let the approaching cold weather drive you into a boring treadmill routine. We’ve scouted four local dance classes that will help you to stay healthy all year long—even if you hate exercise—each proving that a great workout really can be fun.

Masala Bhangra

Bhangra is a traditional folk dance from northern India, and “Masala” means spicy in Hindi. Put them together and you have the hottest dance workout craze around. It’s as much fun as it is rigorous (burning over 500 calories per workout). You’ll recognize the high-energy Bollywood style with its stomping and clapping, but you may be surprised by how much sweating goes on amongst the colorful flowing scarves and smiles.

The easy-to-follow format stays the same, no matter the music. Instructor Deepali Roth says, “It’s a mental workout too.” Each class adds 10–12 steps to a routine, so you can ‘drop in’ anytime to pick up new steps and learn about Indian culture.

Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Sep.14-Dec.14, 14 sessions/$119
Edina Community Center, 5701 Normandale Rd.; 952.848.3952

Tap

As a dance form, tap can take on a ballroom style or display its hoofin’ jazz influence, but one thing is for sure—you can’t strap on a pair of tap shoes without a subsequent mental and physical workout. It’s a creative release like no other.

You can shuffle-ball-change your way to strength, flexibility and improved coordination by turning the floor into a percussive instrument. If you ever needed a stress reliever, this could be your candidate. Instructor Michelle Doyle assures that new tap students catch on quickly and gain a unique sense of accomplishment. The nurturing atmosphere makes for a fun way to get fit.

Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m., beginning Sept. 6 or Nov. 9 or pay-per-class ($14), 9 classes/$120

Deuxmensions Dance Theatre & School, 4402 France Ave. S.; 952.926.7542

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