Finding Fitness is more than just about scoping out the latest fitness trends; it’s about finding exciting new ways to focus on the most important subject of any story: you. From extreme sports to strange and, sometimes, uncomfortable classes, this feature is all about finding the best fitness to maximize your health. Stay tuned to find out what new and exciting fitness endeavors are in the area.
What is Zumba?
Zumba is a fusion of cardio and Latin dance that creates a full body aerobic workout.
Ali Shain, junior speech-language pathology major, has taught various forms of Zumba for about four years. She described Zumba as a mix of dance and exercise. Zumba classes are typically an hour long and feature a high energy environment with loud, exciting music. It is more engaging and high energy than a traditional cardio workout, which Shain believes is the reason for its popularity.
She said, “I think it’s popular because there hasn’t really been anything like this before. I think that a lot of people, particularly women, look for an exercise where they can leave sweating but are also having a really good time. It’s not like running on the treadmill to get a good cardio workout; it’s just an hour of high energy dance, and, if the instructor is really fun, you’ll have a really good time.”
According to Shain, there a number of different variations of Zumba. Participants who are looking for a low impact from of Zumba can try Aqua Zumba, which is a form of aerobic dancing in water. There is also Zumba Gold, which is a Zumba course specially designed for older participants. Other courses include mother and child Zumba, as well as courses for young children.
Shain also explained that Zumba courses can be tailored to the needs of a client, depending on what type of experience they are looking for.
Individuals of all ages and fitness levels can participate in Zumba, according to Shain.
She said, “Honestly, anyone and everyone can try it. I know that people have used it for therapy, to help build up their muscles in a fun way. But I really think that anyone can do it.”
What are the benefits?
Because Zumba is such an effective cardio workout, it can be used to lose weight and burn fat. According to a publication in Harvard Health, one hour of intense dancing, such as Zumba, can burn between 360 and 530 calories. Zumba achieves this level of calorie burning through interval training, which continuously raises and lowers the participant’s heart rate throughout the class.
However, Zumba is not like any other cardio workout. It involves your entire body and will simultaneously engage a number of different muscles.
Shain said, “[Zumba trainers] know how to get the best heart rate and calorie burn, so your heart rate is up and down, while you’re targeting certain parts of your core, leg muscles or your glutes. It’s just a great all-around full body workout that’s also fun and enjoyable.”
The benefits of Zumba are not only physical but also mental. According to an article published by the Berkeley Wellness Center, dancing can reduce stress and anxiety, aid in overcoming depression and even improve moods and boost self-esteem.
“It has a whole mental aspect to it. Once you leave the class, you’ll feel so much better than when you came in. It’s a mind, body and soul environment,” said Shain.
What are the risks?
There are no immediate health risks associated with Zumba; however Shain warned that participants should listen to their body and know their physical limits when trying Zumba.
Shain said, “Obviously, try not to give up if you don’t have to, but if you know that you have low blood pressure, and you’re feeling a little light headed, that would be a good time to take a rest and drink some water. But, if done correctly, it’s a really good workout.”
If you have any major health concerns, it would be advisable to consult a doctor before participating in a Zumba course. Doing so can help you decide what level Zumba course is right for you.
Local Zumba classes:
Recreation and Wellness Center
Nova Southeastern University
3300 S. University Drive, Fort Lauderdale-Davie
Visit rec.nova.edu/fitness for a schedule of classes.
Elite International Dance Academy
8692 Griffin Road, Cooper City-Davie
(Corner of Pine Island and Griffin Road in Timberlake Plaza)
Visit eliteintdance.com/classes for a schedule of classes.
Studio B
11330 W. State Road 84, Davie
Visit studiobefl.com for a schedule of classes.
