Every New Year comes with resolutions which relate to trying something new and resolutions which relate to fitness. Why have separate solutions when you can take up one thing that meets the two, Zumba.
What is Zumba?
Zumba is a fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. It is a combination of dance and aerobic movements to energetic music. It incorporates hip hop, samba, salsa, mambo, various other dance forms along with squats and lunges into its choreography.
About Zumba
Created by Colombian dancer and choreographer Alberto Perez, Zumba is the most popular group fitness program in the world. The classes are high energy and are usually for the duration of an hour.
The choreography is done to upbeat music and even people who do not consider themselves dancers feel at home in a Zumba class.
The environment is extremely welcoming and the movements are free-flowing. Instructors emphasize moving and enjoying the music rather than having rhythm. They take you through a 60-minute class that includes the warm-up, routine and cool down.
Zumba is an interval workout. The routines are designed in such a way that there are high and low intensity songs with moves that match the beat.
This is mainly cardio, however it does focus on flexibility, burning calories as well as strengthening your core. It makes for an excellent cardio workout and some types incorporate weights to build muscles in the arms, legs and glutes as well.
There are several types to choose from-
- Aqua Zumba– This is a water-based class performed in a pool where benefits come from the resistance of water.
2. Toning– Zumba incorporated with body sculpting exercises using toning sticks.
3. Gold– Classes that are modified in such a way that they cater to younger or older people who want to ease back into shape.
Cost wise Zumba classes are a little more on the pricey side. Zumba CDs and DVDs are available. And there are a number of videos available online as well.
Though there may be a number of ways to do it without actually being in a class,l doing it in a group with an instructor is an experience in itself. It is so much fun and exactly what someone needs if they would like to dance their hearts out.
Like every workout session, a Zumba session will leave you feeling elated and satisfied. It is the perfect stress buster and will bring you out of the monotony of your everyday workout. It is definitely the place to go to if you love moving your body to music.
This new year, try something new and try something fun. This new year, give Zumba a shot!
