First founded in 2001, Zumba has exploded to help more than 12 million students get fit and have fun. Zumba trades classic aerobics moves like the grapevine for steps straight from Latin-flavored music like merengue, cumbia, salsa and reggaeton. Unlike a regular group fitness class, the instructors don't bark moves at you but instead demonstrate on an elevated stage or from the front of the room, cuing with gestures instead of words.
Regular Zumba
Regular Zumba, actually branded as "Zumba Fitness," is what you're most likely to see in gyms and health clubs. You do basic Latin dance or hip-hop moves at a fast pace, with modular choreography that mimics the music's anatomy, grouping moves by chorus, bridge, break and verse instead of eight-count batches. It doesn't matter if you point your toes or lead with your heels; the emphasis is on moving constantly and having fun, not perfect form. Expect to do more front, sideways and backward traveling than you'd do during formal dance, and look for bits and pieces of other dance styles, like belly dance and flamenco, mixed in with the rest of the moves.
Zumba Gold
You'll see dancers of all ages rocking out to regular Zumba classes. But for those who want a slightly less intense workout without losing all of the gyrations, shimmies and energizing music you're used to, there's Zumba Gold. Instructors must attend a separate certification to learn to tailor Zumba Gold moves to the specific needs of the older population.
Zumbatomic
Zumbatomic is designed specifically for ages 4 through 12, with kid-friendly and kid-appropriate choreography set to the same rocking Zumba music you're used to hearing.
Aqua Zumba
If you feel self-conscious about shaking your booty where all can see it, you can "hide" in the water. The water also gives you extra support to ease the impact on your joints, cools you down and offers resistance to make some of the moves more challenging.
Zumba Toning
If you've ever wanted to be part of the music, Zumba toning sticks offer you that chance. You use these light dumbbell maracas for toning exercises like squats and curls, all mixed in with Zumba choreography.
Circuit Zumba
"Zumba in the Circuit" mixes short Zumba intervals with strength-training exercises, keeping your heart rate elevated throughout a 30-minute workout. This is a time-efficient way to combine the benefits of strength training and cardiovascular exercise without missing out on the chance to bust a few moves.
Member Comments