Zumba is the Latin-based dance-party fitness program gaining worldwide popularity with exercise buffs and couch potatoes alike. Dance, on the other hand, encompasses a variety of styles and disciplines that may not work in an aerobics class. The differences range from severe to subtle, and the likenesses are many, as well. For instance, there are only a few types of Zumba classes, but dance is virtually unlimited.
Types of Zumba
Zumba has several types of classes. First, Zumba Basic, the most popular class, features exotic rhythms and flavorful dance moves that inspire a serious workout while you're having too much fun to notice. Next, Zumba Gold is geared toward older adults, while Zumbatomic is designed for children. Zumba Toning and Toning Gold provide participants with strength training in a dance environment, where Aqua Zumba takes the workout into the water. Zumba in Circuit combines Latin dance with circuit training for a 30-minute body-blast. Zumba requires that at least 70 percent of music and dance styles be Latin-based in all classes.
Types of Dance
There are many reasons to dance, such as for entertainment, physical fitness, cultural participation, self-expression, as well as for social interaction. Styles of dance include the Latin-styles done in Zumba, in addition to hip hop, ballet, tap, jazz, ballroom, break dancing, folk dancing, line dancing and belly dancing, to name only a few. New dances are created, and historical dances are renewed, making the types of dance virtually endless. Zumba might be a social way of working out, but it is mainly a form of physical fitness.
Similarities
Zumba is often compared to a dance-party, as it usually creates the general feeling of going out to a nightclub with friends. Both club-dancing and Zumba, along with Latin styles of dance, hip hop and many other types of dance are motivated by a strong bass beat that drives you to move. Zumba and all styles of dance provide you with cardiovascular benefits, help you with weight management, build strength, flexibility and coordination. Zumba and all types of dance also provide a form of self-expression, build confidence and teach spatial awareness.
Differences
Dance classes are usually formal in nature, with verbal instructions and physical corrections from instructors. Zumba differs from dance classes in this respect, as participants just follow along with what instructors are demonstrating. Zumba is limited to moves that the general public is likely capable of following, but dance classes often progress to a highly specialized level. Also, social forms of dance may require a partner, whereas Zumba is strictly a solo endeavor. Zumba can be performed for an audience when demonstrated, but is done mainly for group participation. The fact that Zumba's focus is on having fun with fitness as opposed to perfecting a discipline is what essentially sets it apart from other forms of dance.
Considerations
All forms of dance, including Zumba, provide a multitude of physical, mental and intellectual benefits, but begin slowly, according to your fitness level, and increase intensity gradually. Also, consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
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