A surprising new study suggests that your next workout might be a dance class rather than a jog. Researchers working with the University of Brighton investigated the physical (and psychological) effects of different dance sessions and found that certain styles of dance can burn more calories per hour than cycling, running or swimming.
In one striking example, participants in a 30‑minute street dance class burned an average of 303 kcal—an intense short session that rivals traditional cardio workouts. The research involved a small group of 15 students, aged between 24 and 38, and scientists tracked measures such as heart rate, distance covered, energy expended and psychological states to build a fuller picture of how dance impacts the body and mind.
Beyond calorie counts, the study emphasized that dance delivers both physical and psychological benefits. That combination—vigorous movement plus social and creative engagement—helps explain why dance can be such an effective and enjoyable form of exercise.
The takeaway? If you find running, swimming or cycling monotonous, try a high‑energy dance class. Not only could it match or beat those activities for calorie burn, but it may also offer an uplifting boost to mood and motivation that keeps you moving.
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