What Is Zumba®?
Zumba® is a fitness class that fuses Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a dynamic fitness program. Inspired by Latin dance and music, Zumba® uses a variety of styles in its routines, including cumbia, merengue, salsa, reggaeton, mambo, rumba, flamenco, and hip-hop. The routines feature interval training sessions where fast and slow rhythms are combined with resistance training to tone and sculpt your body. Zumba® is often promoted as a dance party; the type of exercise you’ll want to do every day.
Choosing an Instructor
When researching classes in your local area, it is important to seek a qualified, certified instructor. The instructor should have completed at least the Zumba® Basic Level One Training Course for teaching the general population, or the Zumba® Gold Training in order to teach active older adults or individuals new to exercise. As each instructor has their own teaching style, it is important to find an instructor who meets your individual needs.
Your First Class
The Zumba® instructor will provide both visual and verbal cues to lead the class in easy, simple dance and fitness moves. During the class, you can expect Latin music, different Latin dance styles, and a variety of fitness exercises such as lunges, squats, and bicep curls. Be prepared to move your hips and shake your booty! The class will start with a warm-up, progress to intervals of faster and slower tempos, and end with a cooldown and stretch. Most Zumba® classes are done without special equipment, but some instructors may add hand weights, resistance tubing, or even step to the class. You don’t have to be coordinated and know how to dance to try Zumba®. It uses a lot of repetition. Just be patient and don’t get frustrated! After a few classes you will begin to recognize the basic steps. Even if you can’t do a step, just move however the music makes you feel. There is no wrong or right way to Zumba®.
What to Wear/Bring
Wear comfortable fitness clothing such as shorts, tank tops, T-shirts, etc. Wear something that allows you to stay cool and comfortable. As for shoes, wear cross-trainers or dance shoes — anything that will give you support. Make sure to bring water with you to class and hydrate before, during, and after the workout.
