Irish Step Dancing as a Workout?

If you are looking for something a little new and different when it comes to dancing, have you considered Irish step dancing? I’m sure that many of you have heard of, if not seen shows such as “Riverdance” and other shows that display this beautiful and unique form of dance. “Lord of the Dance” is another example of great Irish step dance though it brings a more modern twist to the audience. 

If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience this dance sensation live you should really make an opportunity to do so. This style of dance is like none you’ve probably ever seen before. It is beautiful and at the same time almost inconceivably difficult to make the moves that are required and show so little effort. The energy involved in these performances is nothing short of amazing. Irish stepdance is precision in motion, and confined to traditional rules about what one can and cannot do. The most familiar form of stepdancing is the Munster, or southern form, which had been formalized in the 1930’s by the Gaelic League. 

Young and old alike are being taken by storm when it comes to this sort of dance. The music is inspiring and fun as are the steps and kicks that are done with such ease by the performers. If you are looking for a great way to get a good aerobic workout, see if there is a class in your area. This is a high energy form of dance and that should be remembered however you will get an excellent lower body workout in addition to the aerobic benefits. You will also burn a good many calories in the process.

This is a style of dance that simply looks fun. Whether you are watching or participating the excitement and energy level is almost visible. It is nothing short of amazing to be in the audience for one of these shows. It should be added that while not all Irish step dancing requires the skill and energy that is seen in the major productions such as the ones I’ve mentioned above, there is still a good degree of energy in all forms of Irish step dancing. This energy is what makes this style of dancing so appealing.

Young girls/boys, teens, and women and men across America are discovering for themselves what a wonderful form of dance Irish step dancing really is. These classes are a little more challenging than some other forms of dancing may be because they require the steps to be made in line with other students in the class. You rely on each other and must keep pace with the music. It is a wonderful challenge that also helps students of this style of dance learn to work together in addition to developing and refining their own Irish step dance skills. There are solo dances but for the most vivid affect these dances should be done as part of a larger group. It truly is a stunning sight to behold. 

If you have a passion for music and energy then perhaps Irish step dancing classes would be a good mix for you and your fitness and dance needs. It is a beautiful style of dancing that is not only fun to watch but also fun to perform. You will work with a larger group and learn to work together for the greatest possible effect. Of all the styles of dance that are enjoyed around the world today, this is one of the most interesting forms of group dance I’ve ever encountered. If you want to be a part of something much larger than yourself, this is a great way to do just that. 

photo credit: (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons; Irish Step dancing)

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