Colombian fitness guru Beto Perez fused Latin rhythms and dance-fitness in the mid-'90s to create the Zumba workout program. By 2010, Zumba had spread to 105 countries, 60,000 fitness centers and 7.5 million participants, according to Zumba Fitness. The Zumba party is designed to keep you hooked on dance moves, salsa- and merengue-inspired music and a supportive, friendly class environment. The choreography switches fast and slow rhythms and includes focused toning moves to balance the aerobic workout.
Take a Friend
Any new fitness class can be intimidating. If you don't know anyone in the Zumba class, ask a friend to join you. Having a familiar face there will keep you relaxed, making you more approachable to potential new friends in the class, and it holds you accountable for coming to class.
Dress Appropriately
The Texas-based studio ZuMama Fitness recommends wearing lightweight, cardio-friendly clothing that will wick away or absorb sweat. Choose form-fitting leggings or loose clothing, whatever works, as long as you can move freely and are not self-conscious. Zumba.com suggests cross-trainers or other aerobic shoes to give your feet lateral support and allow for sliding and turning steps. Skip running shoes because the thicker tread makes some Zumba moves difficult. Do not wear socks or go barefoot; you need support for high-impact moves.
Prepare to Sweat
Bring a large water bottle, recommends ZuMama Fitness. Zumba's mix of fast cardio and slow toning leads to a lot of sweat. Keep a golf towel or small hand towel available to mop up during and after the workout.
Follow Your Own Pace
Fitness classes bring together people of all fitness levels, so learn to pace yourself based on your fitness needs and abilities. Beginners will work next to advanced dancers. At times a class will have two instructors, one of which does less strenuous movements for beginners. If you don't have a beginner instructor to follow, maintain your pace by performing fewer reps or taking breaks by walking in place for 10 seconds.
Relax
Zumba beginners do not need to be club dancers. Focus on the goal of Zumba: aerobic fitness. Keep moving, even if you miss a step. DallasNews.com interviewed local participants who said the relaxed atmosphere of the class kept them moving. If the choreography is too difficult or feels awkward, just do your best. Each week, your body will get used to the new rhythms and gyrations, until you have mastered the Latin moves, says ZuMama Fitness.
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