Finally made it to the wildly popular Zumba class at my gym. After weeks of peering into a room full of sweaty but smiling ladies shaking and gyrating to pumping music, I decided it was high time to join the dance party.
Zumba: Here to Stay, or Just Another Fleeting Fad?
Zumba has shimmied its way into the top 10 fitness trends for the upcoming year, according to a survey by the American College of Sports Medicine. This super-charged dance workout is a fast-paced fusion of hip hop, Latin-inspired salsa and flamenco, and even a bit of belly dancing.
First introduced in Colombia in the 90s, today more than 12 million people flock to packed Zumba classes every week, according to an article in “USA Today.” Its popularity is no surprise. After all, it’s a fun workout that doesn’t feel like work. When you hear the music, you just want to start tapping your toes to the beat. And there’s a class for everyone — regardless of fitness level.
Hey… Guys? Wait Up!
So how did it go, you ask? Let’s just put in this way – it was fun, and I won’t be invited to Dancing with the Stars anytime soon!
After a simple, easy-to-follow warm-up to Lady Gaga, the Latin beats started bumping. That’s when the foot work got tricky. It would have been easier to follow if I had posted myself behind the instructor or someone who knew what she was doing. But I chose my favorite, inconspicuous spot across the room by the window. I was constantly craning my neck to see what the instructor was doing.
Each dance was energetic and quick! Often, I found myself a couple of beats behind, clapping my hands and shaking to the left while everyone else was shimmying to the right. No matter, it was plenty of fun and a great way to break out of my comfort zone and try something new.
Is Zumba a Calorie Burner?
Did I sweat? A bit, but I probably didn’t burn nearly as many calories as someone who really knows the moves. I can see how it could be a good cardio workout with some practice. Experts say a person can burn anywhere from 400-1000 calories during an hour long class.
Final Words of Advice
If you want to break out of your same old, boring workout rut, give Zumba a try! Strategically position yourself behind the instructor or an experienced Zumba pro, channel your inner Shakira and just have fun!
Have you tried Zumba yet?