What Is Zumba Aerobics?

Zumba incorporates aerobic interval training with Latin-style dance movements that keep participants coming back. Zumba is moderately easy to learn because the instructors teach the basic routines and then add embellishments. Because it feels more like dancing than exercising, Zumba is growing in popularity and geographic reach. As Zumba-certified instructor Debby Giaimo says, "Don't worry if you don't get all the steps right away. The idea is to have fun!"

History

Zumba was created by Alberto "Beto" Perez, a Colombian celebrity fitness trainer. He discovered that he had forgotten to bring aerobics music to a class he was teaching and had to improvise. Using his personal collection of tapes, which included salsa and merengue music, he taught his aerobics class with a Latin flavor. It was a success. Perez brought the concept to the United States in 1999 and teamed up with Alberto Perlman and Alberto Aghion to take the Zumba concept global. In 2002, an infomercial deal helped the company do that. Zumba's success generated a demand for more instructors, and by 2006 there were more than 2,000 teachers around the world. As of July 2009, some 40,000 locations in 75 countries offer Zumba classes.

Benefits

Zumba is an aerobic exercise, which means it can be effective in a weight-loss program. Zumba routines rev up your metabolism and can burn 450 calories per hour. As with other aerobic exercises, when done properly, Zumba promotes cardiovascular health. The movements used in Zumba--such as salsa, merengue, cha-cha, mambo and Zumba shuffle steps--help tone muscles.

Fun Factor

Zumba is successful because participants enjoy themselves. The Latin music and steps present a dramatic change from traditional aerobics routines. The tempo changes from slow to moderate to fast and back again. This allows even beginners to grasp the steps and keep up. Zumba feels more like an evening at a Latin dance club than an exercise program.

Learning Zumba

Zumba routines are designed for beginners, intermediates and advanced exercisers. If you can't find a class near you, you can buy DVDs at Zumba.com. You can use Zumba toning sticks or hand weights in conjunction with the toning routines.

Class Types

Basic level 1 classes focus on four rhythms; merengue, salsa, cumbia and reggaeton. Basic level 2 adds four more rhythms: belly dance, flamenco, tango and samba. A toning class will incorporate the Zumba toning sticks to help tone or enhance the rhythm of the movements. Specialized classes focus on older participants or those with special needs. There is even a class available that utilizes a chair.

References

• Zumba

Resources

• Heart Healthy Online