This Full-Body Dance Workout Will Get Your Heart Rate Up, Without You Ever Leaving Home

Updated on 3/6/2020 at 8:40 AM

Cardio is a necessary evil. You need it to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight, but we understand that it's not everyone's jam. Thankfully, cardio doesn't have to be synonymous with slogging away on a treadmill, if that's not how you like to exercise. It can even be — dare we say it — fun! See for yourself with this dance circuit from trainer Amanda Kloots.

Each move helps you tighten and tone your abs, arms, legs, and glutes while getting your heart rate up. There's no equipment and no gym needed — just find a safe place to work out at home, and start sweating. Once you've mastered the moves, repeat the entire circuit three times for a workout that will really whip you into shape!

Reach High Knee Tap

Stand with one foot out to the side, toe pointed toward the ground. Extend the opposite arm overhead, as shown.
Bring the extended arm and opposite leg to touch, making sure you bring your knee up high enough that it meets your elbow.
Hold for two seconds and release, extending the arm and foot out again to starting position.
Do 24 reps and switch sides.

Heel Stretch Toe Tap

Reach your left heel forward, as you life both arms up to the sky.
Bring your feet back together in a jump.
Tap your right toe to your right hand, twisting through your waist.
Return to starting position with your left heel forward and arms up high.
Do 24 reps and switch sides.

Ballet Jump

Stand with your heels together, toes turned out.
With a slight bend in your knees, jump off the floor, straightening both legs as you bring your toes up off the ground.
Land in starting position with your heels together and toes turned out. Make sure to keep a slight bend in your knee to prevent injury.
Do 24 reps.

Curtsy Crunch

Stand with your right leg behind you in a curtsy position, with just the ball of your foot resting on the ground.
Bend your knees, squeezing your legs together.
As you return to standing, bring your right knee up to your right elbow in an oblique side crunch.
Do 24 reps and switch sides.