Zumba® is one of the hottest work out trends in the world. The concept originated in Columbia with aerobic instructor Beto Perez., who improvised an aerobics class using Latin dance steps and music. To his surprise, the Latin based aerobics class was a huge hit.
Zumba® is the exercise class for people who love to dance and want to maximize the fun in their workout. However, it can be a little intimidating for anyone who thinks salsa is a dip made out of tomatoes, but there's no reason to be nervous.
Zumba®: A Dance Aerobic Workout
Zumba® is a dance aerobic workout that utilizes multiple dance styles. Steps from all the major Latin dances are used, including Salsa, Merengue and Samba. Bellydance also makes an appearance.
There's also a lot of booty popping (think Beyonce) and hip wiggling (think Shakira) in Zumba®. While it's a lot of fun, for people who are not used to exercising, the booty pops and hip movements of Zumba® may be stressful on the lower back.
During the first several classes, participants should not Zumba® to the max until their hips, back and abdominal wall are conditioned to the choreography.
Bring a towel and water to every class. Zumba® classes are intense and the sweat sneaks up on participants as most moves are accessible and fun, so many people do more than they realize. Expect to be absolutely drenched by the end of a Zumba® class.
Learn Zumba® Choreography
Zumba® instructors rarely cue the choreography and there is minimal verbal instruction. Participants are expected to follow along and pick it up as they go. At the most, some instructors will clap or point to indicate a change in choreography, but that's about it. For newbies, it's important to be up front so they can see exactly what the instructor is doing and pick up the steps.
The choreography is usually introduced at a slow tempo and then the music rapidly picks up the pace. Don't worry about going as fast as everyone else at first, focus on learning the steps. Speed will come in time.
Class Participation Zumba® Style
One of the great qualities of a Zumba® class is the way everyone participates. Cheering is encouraged and there's definitely a dance party vibe at a Zumba® class. Some people bring whistles to class, which are often used in Latin music or at celebrations such as Carnival, and will blow sharp bursts in time with the music.
Don't be afraid to clap, hoot and holler. This is what makes Zumba® so much fun and so energizing.
Find a Zumba® Class
Zumba® is growing so quickly that classes and instructors are popping up faster than webmasters can list them. First, check the official Zumba® website and see if any classes are listed. Then try a Google search for Zumba® with a city name. Also look for a Facebook fan page for a specific town or region.
Ask around as well. Anyone that works out regularly or has a gym membership will have heard about any upcoming classes.
Above all, don't be shy. Zumba® classes love new people and Inc. magazine reports there are 7.5 million people shaking their hips in a Zumba® class. Why not be one of them?
Sources:
Official Zumba Website (Retrieved June 19, 2010.)
Suite 101. "Zumba A Fun Alternative Exercise and Fitness Routine." (Retrieved June 20, 2010.)
WebMd. "Zumba: Fun is Secret Ingredient of Latin Dance Workout." (Retrieved June 10, 2010.)
Inc. Magazine. "Zumba Turns Dancers into Entrepreneurs." (Retrieved June 20,2010.)
Michelle Rasey - Michelle R. Rasey has extensive expertise in International Business and Health. She holds two BA degrees and an alternative medical ...
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