Masala Bhangra is a unique dance that mixes cardiovascular fitness with fun.
Thirty minutes of treadmill cardio, weights et al have become so old school. Fitness enthusiasts all over the city have a new fitness regimen these days. Dance routine workouts have become the talk of the town. You may have already heard of Zumba and Bollywood Dance as popular dance routine workouts, but this season, fitness instructor Shalini Bhargava brings to you Masala Bhangra, a fun and highly effective dance workout. In an interview with iDiva.com, Shalini tells us all you need to know about Masala Bhangra.
Not much is known about Masala Bhangra as a workout routine. What exactly is Masala Bhangra?
The Masala Bhangra Workout is an exercise dance routine that modernises the high-energy folk dance of Bhangra and the exhilaration of Bollywood moves, set in an easy-to-follow fitness format. This unique dance mixes cardiovascular fitness with fun, and is suitable for participants of all ages and fitness levels. This powerful workout offers a successful way for participants to become more physically active and stay fit.
Tell us about the origin of Masala Bhangra and its popularity in India and abroad?
The Masala Bhangra Workout is derived from two Indian words: Masala, which means spicy in Hindi, and Bhangra, which is a traditional folk dance from the northern state of Punjab, India. It is the second most popular form of alternate exercise of Indian origin globally. It was developed 15 years ago by New York-based fitness expert, Sarina Jain.
In terms of burning calories, how effective is Masala Bhangra in comparison to a regular workout?
Masala Bhangra can burn more than 500 calories. Calorie-burning for any workout is dependent on the intensity of the participant.
Give us five reasons why Masala Bhangra is better than normal workout.
– You’re having fun while you work out; hence, you are inclined to keep at it.
– If you enjoy dancing, you will definitely enjoy Masala Bhangra.
– There’s a desi connect.
– It keeps your metabolic rate high, which in turn gives optimum weight loss results.
– It tones and conditions the entire body.
You’ve hosted the Masala Bhangra Mela in Mumbai, what was that convention like?
This convention was one of the most-awaited fitness events of the year. Fitness enthusiasts and global experts plan their itinerary around it. At this event we not only saw the world’s best Masala Bhangra experts, seminars and workshops by the creator Sarina Jain and Master Trainers, Dennis and Tina Thomsen from Denmark and myself; but we also had professional experts from Chandigarh who shared their authentic take on the actual form of dance, thus connecting us to our roots.
What is unique about Masala Bhangra as a workout routine?
The uniqueness lies in its form and effectiveness. You feel as if you are dancing at a wedding and its celebration time. It is the only Indian fitness workout, besides yoga, which is internationally recognised.
Tell us a little more about your journey as a fitness instructor?
My mantra is: When you follow your passion with determination, perseverance, conviction and focus, success follows without having to run behind it. And most importantly since you love what you do, happiness, mental satisfaction and peace of mind are yours forever.’
My journey has been the most amazing and satisfying. Of course, nothing comes easy and you always have to choose one thing over another, and I chose fitness over everything else.
As an internationally recognised fitness instructor, give our readers five fitness tips they should incorporate in their daily lives.
Make fitness and exercise a lifestyle.
– Do any physical activity at least 30 minutes, on all or most days of the week.
– Worship and take care of your body like a temple.
– Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand.
– Apart from physical fitness, take care of mental and spiritual fitness as well.
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