In fitness studios across Canada, South Asian-inspired workouts are turning exercise into a cultural movement. From high-energy Bhangra sessions to Bollywood-themed boot camps, BollyX is emerging as the “next big thing” because it is not just about breaking a sweat but also breaking barriers—making fitness an inclusive, community-driven experience.
This high-energy, full-body workout fitness program combines the moves of Bollywood and Bhangra dance with strength training, cardio, and muscle toning packed in an hour-long session. Designed to engage core muscles and build stamina, these reps are also believed to enhance cardiovascular health.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced dancer, the routine provides variations to suit every fitness level, making it a fun and inclusive way to get fit.
BollyX: A Global Fitness Phenomenon
Gopika Arora, Group Fitness Leader at Fitness World Canada, explains the appeal of this workout style: “BollyX workouts are incredibly effective because they combine high-energy movement with elements of cardio, strength, and endurance training. Bhangra, in particular, involves explosive footwork, deep squats, and powerful arm movements, which enhance stamina and core strength.” These dynamic moves, set to Bollywood’s infectious beats, make the class feel more like a celebration. As Gopika emphasizes, “These classes are gaining popularity globally because they offer a fun alternative to traditional workouts, making participants excited to work out rather than view it as a chore.”
Dildeep Khaira, certified BollyX instructor, adds, “Bhangra and Bollywood connect us to our roots, and therefore, people don’t see them just as workouts but soul food.”
Intensity Tailored for All Fitness Levels
“A class usually involves a lot of jumping, squats, and upper-body movement, making it a full-body workout,” Gopika shares. To ensure accessibility for all, instructors provide modifications. “For beginners, I recommend low-impact options like smaller movements, less jumping, and simpler footwork. For regular and advanced participants, I increase intensity with deeper squats, faster tempos, and more energetic jumps,” she notes.
Dildeep also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in these classes, “BollyX and Bhangra workouts vary from low, moderate to high intensity. Just like other traditional fitness classes, there’s a warm-up and cool-down component, which is essential to avoid injuries.”
Overcoming Psychological Barriers
While the physical workout is engaging, psychological barriers can arise for some participants. Dance-based fitness can be intimidating, particularly when it involves unfamiliar movements or intense routines. Dildeep elaborates, “Sometimes learners can be shy trying out a new class or not feeling fit enough or seldom accessibility can be an issue. I try to put them at ease by connecting with them before the class and encouraging them throughout.”
“Dancing can be extremely vulnerable for participants,” further admits Gopika. “It’s not uncommon for beginners to feel self-conscious about their coordination or worry they aren’t fit enough to keep up. However, I work hard to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment. I am constantly reminding them to just have fun with it! Don’t overthink about perfecting the routine and have a great workout however that looks for you.”
Dildeep recalls one particular moment, “Once I taught a class where a senior gentleman just sat on the bouncing ball and moved his body with the music. That’s totally fine. He felt welcomed and included, and that’s a win for me!”
Building a Diverse Fitness Community
Beyond the physical benefits, these fitness classes foster a sense of unity and community among enthusiasts. Gopika agrees, “The most surprising outcome of these ‘sweat hours’ would be the ability to empower the community. These Bhangra/Bollywood-inspired classes deeply connect individuals and have sparked a genuine love and appreciation for South Asian music and culture.” What began as a workout routine soon evolved into a supportive, celebratory get-together where people bond over music and movement. She shares, “I see more diverse people embracing Bollywood music and Bhangra, breaking cultural barriers through this fun, energetic workout.”
Dildeep weighs in, “It’s not just the South Asian community—people from all backgrounds are joining in. We’ve created a fitness community where everyone can vibe to the same rhythm, regardless of their ethnicity. There’s only positivity and no competition when everyone is dancing and uplifting each other. The shared joy of dance and fitness has united people across the globe fostering a sense of belonging.”
The Future of Culturally-Inspired Fitness
As fitness trends continue to evolve, the future of the industry leans toward more inclusive and diverse approaches. “Culturally inspired fitness is only going to grow! People are looking for new workouts that feel joyful, immersive, and inclusive,” predicts Gopika. “I see more fusion-style classes emerging combining functional, primal, and mobility movements.”
Dildeep also envisions a journey where the fusion of global rhythms becomes a mainstay in fitness. “The joy of dance and fitness is universal and the appeal will only continue to widen,” she concludes.
Get Dancing: Join the BollyX Revolution
With its combination of fun, inclusivity, and effective exercise, BollyX is changing the way the world approaches fitness—one Bollywood beat at a time.
So, what are you waiting for? Lace-up your sneakers and get ready to work your body like they do in the movies. Fitness cannot get more exhilarating, culturally rich, and meaningful than this!
