Aerobic dance classes became popular in the 1970s. These classes feature choreographed aerobic activity performed to music. Some classes involve stepping up and down on an 8- to 12-inch platform. High-impact classes -- which involve jumping, hopping and running activities -- will usually burn more calories than low-impact aerobics, but in some cases, they have a greater potential for injury. The calories burned in aerobic dance classes will vary according to the intensity of the movements. Overly complex choreography might impede the participants' ability to follow the movements, resulting in a less-intense workout.
