If you equate fitness with hours on a treadmill or mind-numbing, punishing workouts, you might just find relief in Zumba. This brand-name fitness method has experienced significant success since the early 2000s, becoming a commonly offered class in gyms around the world. While Zumba may not be for everyone, it is designed to suit all types and levels of activity in a fun and exciting atmosphere.
Definition
Zumba is a type of fitness workout that combines dance with aerobics. Presented in an hourlong routine by trained instructors, Zumba is set to Latin music and includes many Latin dance moves. What sets Zumba apart is its fun and casual atmosphere, which some describe as being more like a party than a workout. Zumba is designed to use the natural rhythms in the music, rather than focusing on step counts.
History
Zumba was founded by Alberto "Beto" Perez, a Colombian fitness instructor. In the mid-1990s, Beto forgot to bring music for one of his classes. He substituted the music he had on hand, and realized that the class was much more enjoyable with salsa and merengue music.
Perez tried for several years to gain attention in the U.S., finally having his first breakthrough in 1999. In 2001, he teamed up with Alberto Perlman, who helped bring the Zumba name into the mainstream. As of 2008, Zumba had trained more than 20,000 instructors around the world.
Format and Necessities
A Zumba class typically lasts one hour. It alternates simple, fast dance moves with slower steps to create an interval-training workout. A single class can burn hundreds of calories while toning muscles. The routine is set to salsa, merengue and reggaeton, and is designed to be enjoyable and dance-like.
Because it is not like traditional fitness program, Zumba generally requires looser-fitting clothing and flat-soled shoes that allow the foot to pivot.
Benefits
Zumba attendees claim that the simple, fun dance moves make for a more enjoyable workout, which they're likely to continue. Some mention that the dance-like atmosphere lightens their mood and helps raise energy. Specialized Zumba workouts can help older and physically limited exercise enthusiasts get a workout without risking overexertion or injury.
References
- CNN Health; Zumba Zooms to the Top of the Exercise World; Judy Fortin; September 2008
- Zumba Fitness: About Zumba Fitness
- "Reader's Digest"; Meet the Man Behind Zumba: Beto Perez; November 2009
- "The Telegraph"; Get Fit Dancing: Dance to a Different Beat with Zumba; Jane Alexander; March 2009
- "Aging Well"; Zumba Gold Program Attracts Elders; Lindsey Getz
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