Zumba
Zumba is a dance fitness class to Latin American and international music — salsa, merengue, cumbia, reggaeton and more. It was created by the Colombian dancer and fitness instructor Alberto Pérez. Zumba is a brand; its classes are taught by licensed instructors.
What it is for
Section titled “What it is for”- Cardio and endurance in the form of a dance party.
- Coordination, rhythm and freedom of movement.
- Mood and stress relief: many people come for the fun as much as for the workout.
- A first step into dance: you pick up the basic steps of several Latin styles.
Equipment
Section titled “Equipment”- Comfortable sports clothes you can move and sweat in.
- Training shoes or dance sneakers that turn easily. Avoid soles that grip the floor hard: Zumba has many turns and pivots, and a sticky sole twists the knee.
- A towel and water.
- Nothing else. Some formats add light weights, which the studio provides.
How a class goes
Section titled “How a class goes”- Usually 45–60 minutes.
- The class is a series of songs, each with its own short routine. The first songs are slower for the warm-up, the middle ones are faster, and the last ones are slow for the cool-down and stretching.
- The instructor rarely explains in words: you follow the moves and hand signals. The routines repeat, so you learn them as you go.
- No partner is needed — everybody dances on their own, facing the instructor.
- There are several formats, such as Zumba Gold at a gentler pace, Aqua Zumba in the pool and Zumba Toning with light weights. The class name on the timetable says which format it is.
- In your first class, follow the feet first and add the arms later. Nobody expects you to get every step.
Who it suits best
Section titled “Who it suits best”- Anybody who finds the gym boring and loves music.
- Beginners in dance and in fitness: the steps are simple and they repeat.
- People of any age — Zumba Gold is made for older adults and beginners.
- Those who want to try Latin dance without a partner. If you like it, see Latina solo or Salsa.
- It suits less anybody with knee or ankle problems, because of the jumps and turns. In pregnancy or with a heart condition, ask your doctor first. Tell the instructor, who can show lower-impact versions.