Zumba dancing combines international rhythms and Latin-style dancing with resistance training, creating a powerful workout for experienced Zumba dancers and beginners alike. Zumba dancing originated in Colombia in the mid-90s and was introduced to the United States in 1999. In 2003, the Kellogg Company featured the Zumba program on millions of breakfast cereal boxes, which sparked more interest.
History
The idea for the Zumba program originated when Beto Perez, a celebrity fitness trainer, arrived at his aerobics class without his usual aerobics music. He had his personal tapes with him, but they consisted of Latin merengue and salsa music. He improvised moves to adapt to the music and Zumba Fitness was created. The class quickly became the most popular at his fitness center.
Workout
Zumba dancing provides an intense workout and targets the lower and upper body, abs and core. It is an aerobic exercise and thus improves oxygen consumption and increases the heart rate. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular aerobic exercise will strengthen the heart, keep the arteries clear and reduce the risk of many conditions such as diabetes, stroke and certain types of cancer.
Benefits
Zumba classes are not only an effective method to tone the body, but also a powerful way to burn calories. During an intense one-hour Zumba workout, calorie burn can be as high as 800 calories. Attending a Zumba class is also an excellent way of meeting like-minded people. Traditional exercise can become boring, but attendees of Zumba fitness sessions claim the experience is similar to that of being at a party.
Locations
According to the Shape website, Zumba dancing is practiced in more than 100 countries. Zumba.com claims that, in 2007, the program spanned six continents; the only continent not included was Antarctica. If you cannot find a Zumba class in your area instructional DVDs can be purchased online.
Warnings
Zumba dancing involves a lot of pivoting, so if you suffer from knee or lower-back complaints, you should consult an instructor on how to modify the twisting moves, according to Julie Kelly, a Zumba teacher and certified trainer.
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