Tips for newbies to start using DDR as exercise

[dmleach]

I've been using DDR for the past week and a half as an exercise routine. In that amount I've time, I've learned a couple of things that have made my workouts easier:

1. Stretch beforehand. This is, of course, true with any physical activity. I'd love some advice on stretching techniques from those who have been at this longer than I have.

2. Dance a couple of warmup songs. Two days ago, I took the time to dance a couple of boring two and three-foot songs before starting the workout programs. I was then able to complete all three workouts for the first time. Yesterday I skipped the warmups, and my legs ached too much after the second program to attempt the third. I doubt this is coincidence.

Let us newbies learn from your experiences - what have you figured out?

[abrannan]

I'd add:

3. Dance a couple of cool-down songs Just as you danced some 2-3 footers as a warm up, dance a few at the end of your workout to help your body stabilize back to normal. It will help your recovery time. You may also want to do a little stretching at the end of your workout as well.