Blame it on ‘Jai Ho’ from Slumdog Millionaire or ‘Shaava-Shaava’ from Kabhi Kushi Kabhi Gham, Bollywood moves are famous all around the world. Bollywood dance is a mixture of all dance forms - from Latin American to Funk and Jazz. This dance form is rhythmic, fast and vivacious, plus you can never run out of hip-shake inducing songs, because every Bollywood film has at least 2-4 up-tempo songs designed to make your foot tap.

Over the last decade, a number of Bollywood dance 'fitness' classes have emerged across the world. Interestingly, these are choreographed as per popular films' dance moves and find favour with Indians, NRIs, expats, even foreigners. But how good are these dance moves in improving fitness? Let's take a look:

Boosts co-ordination 

The Bollywood dance form requires movement according to the musical beats. When you first try it, it will be a little difficult, but as you practice it daily, your body will develop its natural rhythm. This improves the body’s ability to balance and co-ordinate. The fast, upbeat movements help to kick calories and also shed extra kilos. 

Oxygen supply

The Bollywood dance form is a great form of aerobic exercise, as it involves lots of active and energetic movements. This helps in boosting oxygen supply, throughout the body. In fact, back in the 90s, the dance moves were usually modelled on aerobic movements like jumping jacks, toe touches, side to side lunging and so on.

Stress buster

Bollywood music is upbeat and jovial. This dance form leaves you exhausted but happy as well. The music and dance moves allow you to forget all your worries and problems, which helps to prevent stress.

Joint lubrication

The rigorous movements involved in this dance form help limber up the whole body. It also helps to keep joints well lubricated, which prevents arthritis.

Bollywood dance for fitness is like any other aerobic exercise form that needs commitment, consistency and progression. While it does satisfy your body's cardio needs, it will not help strengthen your muscles for longevity, bone density improvement or long term weight control. For these benefits, which keep you safe from osteoporosis and several other lifestyle diseases, you will still need to add strength training to your fitness routine.

*Image courtesy: © Thinkstock photos/ Getty Images