What Is ZUMBA®?
The ZUMBA® program fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow
moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will blow you
away. ZUMBA® fanatics achieve long-term benefits while experiencing
an absolute blast in one exciting hour of calorie-burning,
body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage and
captivate for life!
What Is Involved?
ZUMBA® is an interval training program where fast and slow
rhythms and resistance training are combined to tone and sculpt
your body while burning fat. Add some Latin flavor and
international zest into the mix and you've got a ZUMBA®
class!
Who Is ZUMBA® For?
ZUMBA® is for just about anybody. Whether you are an inactive
person interested in getting fit or an athlete looking for a
challenge.
How Often Can You Do ZUMBA®?
Zumba is a cardiovascular training class so you can do it once a
week in addition to other workouts or you can do it everyday.
Frequency depends on your fitness goals and fitness level.
How Can You Expect To Feel?
Before Class
It is perfectly normal to feel apprehensive and nervous before
your first ZUMBA® class. Once you get your first class out of
the way, a lot of the apprehension will disappear. Remember, there
is safety in numbers. You will also be amazed at how many others
will help you.
During the Class
Time will fly! You might experience mixed emotions. Just go with
it. Remind yourself that you are new and that you have to start
somewhere. It might seem like the class is moving a little faster
than you would like, but that is only because the terminology and
movements are somewhat unfamiliar. With each class, you will become
a little bit more comfortable and a little more focused on the
workout.
After the Class
You will be excited to get your first class under your belt. It is
important to know that you will be sore. With any new workout or at
the start of any exercise program, you experience muscle soreness.
This is because your body is adjusting to the demand being placed
on your muscles and is perfectly normal.
What To Wear
The most important thing to wear is comfortable workout attire.
Most people wear track pants, shorts, and t-shirts, while some are
more comfortable in Lycra. You should feel comfortable enough to
move and sweat. There is a lot of lateral movement in ZUMBA®, so
cross-training shoes are recommended as they provide the necessary
support.
What To Bring
Bring a towel, a water bottle, and your energy!
Arrive Early
It is important to arrive 15 minutes before class to meet the
instructor. During these 15 minutes, the instructor will ensure
that you are comfortable during your first class and answer any
questions you may have. The instructor will ask you such questions
as:
- Have you ever exercised?
- Have you ever participated in group fitness?
- Do you have any injuries or problems that might affect your
ability to participate?
Your answers to these questions will help the instructor decide
what approach you should take in class and how to modify the
exercises, if necessary.
Where to Stand
The best place to stand is within clear view of the instructor. It
is not necessary to be at the front, but try to be in the center of
the room. It is important to avoid mirrors and to concentrate on
the instructor. He or she is the best source of visual technique
information. Mirrors are distracting and sometimes relay
unnecessary information. Mirrors might tell you that you look silly
doing the moves, even though you might really be having fun. So
please ignore them!
How To Approach Your First 3
Classes
It is good to attend your first couple of classes with the simple
objective of learning the movements, the class format, and the
basic terminology used. Try not to concentrate so much on the
quality of your workout; that will come later as you become more
familiar with the movements.
Talk To the Instructor
Remember to talk to the instructor after class. For example, let
him or her know how you felt and if anything was particularly
challenging for you. The instructor will then make recommendations
for your next class. Most of all have fun during your first
ZUMBA® experience!