The fast-paced element of a hip hop exercise routine provides aerobic and anaerobic benefits while improving flexibility and coordination. Hip hop exercise offers an upbeat alternative to running, climbing stairs or an elliptical machine. Many health clubs offer hip hop style dance or aerobic classes that incorporate hip hop dance moves with simple strength exercises such as squats and lunges for a full body, cardiovascular workout. Attend a hip hop exercise class at your local health club, pick up a hip hop exercise video or simply turn up the music and dance in the privacy of your own home.

Aerobic Benefits
The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 30 minutes of moderately intense cardio exercise five days a week. An hour-long hip hop exercise class more than fills that requirement as it raises the heart-rate, increasing cardiovascular endurance. Aerobic benefits kick in when the heart rate rises and your body requires additional oxygen to keep working out. Hip hop exercise keeps your body moving and active during the class or routine. Additional aerobic benefits of hip hop exercise include lower blood pressure, stress reduction and boosts of energy.

Anaerobic Benefits
While reaping aerobic benefits by engaging in hip hop exercise, your body can also benefit anaerobically. Your body works aerobically each time you perform a dance step. By pushing yourself to learn more complex moves and pushing your body to work past the point of a normal workout, you work your muscles anaerobically. To benefit anaerobically from hip hop exercise, ensure you are using proper technique and form when performing steps and movements. By doing so, you will increase muscle strength and improve flexibility.

Confidence
Hip hop exercise movements combine isolated body movements with fluid, fast movements that require quick work and coordination of your muscles and extremities. Gain confidence by mastering the quick, choreographed movements or memorizing a dance routine while also improving coordination, balance and agility. Hip hop exercise is a form of dance and, according to Ace Fitness, dancing is an enjoyable, engaging activity that helps to reduce chronic fatigue and stress, and increase self-esteem and confidence. Start with a beginner class or video to learn basic steps and build self-confidence before moving on to more advanced moves and routines.

Dancing can be a way to stay fit for people of all ages, shapes and sizes. It has a wide range of physical and mental benefits including:
•Improved condition of the heart and lungs
•Increased muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness
•Increased aerobic fitness
•Improved muscle tone and strength
•Weight management
•Stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis
•Better coordination, agility and flexibility
•Improved balance and spatial awareness
•Increased physical confidence
•Improved mental functioning
•Improved general and psychological wellbeing
•Greater self-confidence and self-esteem
•Better social skills.