Taking Part in a Zumba Class Can Be Quite the Experience
Zumba began in 1998 and has since taken the world by storm. It is now offered in 180 countries. Zumba was originally created by Alberto "Beto" Perez, a Colombian dancer. This unique workout is a combination of dance and fitness, which is why so many people love it. It's something different and fun, and any time you can make fitness fun, there is going to be high demand. Those who are participating are enjoying burning calories, inevitably leading to losing weight.
If you choose to take part in a Zumba class, there are a few things you should know. One, eat a meal at least two hours prior. Two, eat something light and drink water prior to taking the class. Three, wear dance sneakers or cross trainers--or anything with low tread. Four, you're going to make mistakes, but that's normal for a beginner.
What Specifically Is Zumba?
When you take a Zumba class, you're working out to salsa, flamenco, or merengue music. The focus is on having a good time, which is specified in the Zumba tagline: "Ditch the Workout, Join the Party." There are several different types of parties. While the music is always similar, the workouts can differ, and you should choose the workout that fits your needs best. These workouts include Beginner Zumba, Aqua Zumba, Zumba Toning, Weight Loss Zumba, Zumba Step, and Zumba Kids, but there are many more.
Most of these workouts are going to be high intensity with a lot of bouncing and jumping. However, you can still find lower intensity workouts, such as with Zumba Step. And if you want to tone your muscles, take Zumba Toning. Almost all Zumba classes are offered indoors. This is due to better acoustics with the music, which leads to a higher energy level.
Benefits Of Zumba
Most Zumba classes are going to help your cardiorespiratory endurance, core, legs, glutes, and flexibility. Your cardiorespiratory endurance is also known as your CRE, and it relates to how long you can exercise at a high intensity without running out of breath. In order to improve your CRE, you need to get used to working out at higher heart rates. Zumba is perfect for this. When you consistently work out at higher heart rates, you're going to burn enough fat to lose weight, which is the primary reason most people take the class in the first place.
The average person burns 369 calories in one hour in a Zumba class. However, this can differ based on various factors, including age, weight, fitness level, genetics, and your intensity level. If you want to burn more fat, increase your intensity. In order to lose a pound of fat, you need to burn 500 calories more than usual in one week. Therefore, if you take at least two Zumba classes in one week, you should accomplish this goal. The more classes you take, the more weight you're going to lose.
This is an interesting balancing act because you need calories for energy to fuel your workout. The key is to get your calories from nutritious meals. That way you're not tempted to snack. Ditch the chips and look at a nice salad with protein.
Finding Zumba Classes
You should be able to find Zumba classes near you, regardless of where you live. You might find them at your local gym, community center, or YMCA. If you can't find anything in your area when you're out and about, simply go to the Zumba website and type in your zip code. All Zumba classes in your area will pop up in an instant.
If you don't feel comfortable dancing and working out in front of other people, you can buy a Zumba DVD and work out from the comfort of your own home. You will still be able have fun and lose weight just like everyone else. You won't need any equipment unless you're taking Zumba Toning or Zumba Step. For Zumba Toning, you will need 1 lb., 2 lb. and 3 lb. dumbbells. For Zumba Step, you will simply need something to step on.
