Zumba Classes, Dance The Fat Away

What does Emma Watson, Halle Berry, Jackie Chan, Wyclef Jean, and Victoria Beckham all have in common? They all have taken Zumba classes! Introduced to the United States back in 2001 by its creator and founder Alberto “Peto” Perez, this Latin-inspired dance fitness program has hit fitness centers, health centers, and gyms across the globe like a ton of bricks. More than 15 million people from around the world take Zumba classes in more than 180 countries, and is considered the most successful dance fitness program. Unlike other dance style fitness programs that have fizzled out over a few years, Zumba continues to grow strong (about 13 years and going), a trend that will likely last for quite awhile.

So why is Zumba so popular? Zumba incorporates many different styles of dance, including hip-hop, samba, salsa,  soca, mambo, and even martial arts. Squats and lunges are also included during the exercises.  The music comes from a variety mix, which includes meringue, mambo, flamenco, cachucha, reggae ton, and much more. The different styles of dance and music appeals to a wide range of people, from young to the elderly, creating a unique and fun environment, which so happens to be good for your body.  Zumba is a full body workout that will also improve your cardio health, resulting in a finely tone body. It has been shown that Zumba burns more calories than cardio kickboxing and step aerobics, with an average of 369 calories burned, and up to around 1000 calories burned in a single, hour long session based on a study by researchers.

A single instructor coordinates the entire class, but the participants in the class don’t have to necessarily mimic the instructors every move.  The atmosphere is almost similar to that of a line dance or a dance party, with the participants adding their own moves and style while moving along to the music and guidance from the instructor.

Zumba has become so large that they have expanded it to home fitness DVD’s and even video games. “Zumba Fitness”, a Zumba game released on the Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and Wii, have managed to sell over 3 million copies as of August 2011. So if you don’t have the opportunity to go to a class, there’s always other options to practice Zumba at the comfort of your own home.

Zumba is accessible for all ages. If you’re looking for a fun and energetic environment, while efficiently burning calories and fat, and building up tone muscles, then look no further. Join the party at My Health Studio.