If there’s one fitness craze that’s been shown to have serious staying power, it’s Zumba. Dance classes dominated the charts of the most popular workouts in the country in 2023, and Zumba, in particular, landed in the top ten.
Known for its high-tempo vibes, super-fun music, and absolutely prosperous community, Zumba provides a host of physical, mental and social benefits.
But what it is Zumba classreally? What can you expect if you get one? And how can Zumba elevate your fitness routine?
Let’s get into the topic.
The principles of fitness fashion in the world
Zumba classes began to gain serious traction in the early 2000s, but the concept began to take shape a decade earlier.
Then, 16-year-old Colombian fitness instructor and choreographer Alberto “Beto” Perez accidentally forgot his usual playlist for his aerobics class — a list of pop songs his employer insisted he play., He improvised by leading the class with a mix tape full of Latin tunes that happened to be in his car. The on-site session turned into an innovative and vibrant mix of aerobics and dance moves.
It was, in a word, a success.
By 2003, more than 150 US residents had become certified Zumba instructors, and classes were offered everywhere from Cali, Colombia to Los Angeles, California. Nine years later, Zumba Fitness has been crowned the largest fitness brand in the world. And today? More than 12 million people of all ages jump into Zumba classes in more than 110,000 locations in more than 125 countries (if ever there was a testament to the popularity of a workout).
What is Zumba Class?
Zumba, which was originally called “rumba” (or Colombian slang for “party”), has maintained its original flow of cardio exercises mixed with internationally inspired dance moves, such as:
- Sauce
- Meringue
- Hip-hop
- Bollywood style
- Reggaeton
- Cumbia
- Samba
The general consensus is that Zumba is not feel such as exercise. Instead, Zumba classes look like a dance party set to soulful songs by Shakira, Con Calma, Ricky Martin and Bruno Mars. It’s lively but low-impact and fast-paced but liberating, making it a popular workout choice across all ages and fitness levels.
What are the benefits of Zumba?
In addition to burning some serious calories, Zumba can:
- Provide full body tone – Squats, slides, flamenco arms: Zumba classes are full of movements that aim ten of various muscles, including your:
- Quads
- Calves
- Glutes
- Core
- Shoulders
- Weapons
- Increases flexibility, strength and cardiovascular health – The constancy (but doable constancy) of Zumba classes can offer aerobic and anaerobic benefits, while the assortment of dance moves can nurture muscle strength. The stretches that conclude Zumba classes can also increase flexibility.
- Promotes mental and cognitive well-being – Exercise in itself has been shown to be beneficial for the brain. In particular, creative dance classes like Zumba – which force the mind to tune in to the next step – can:
- Improve self-esteem
- Decreases fatigue
- Increase concentration and alertness
- Curb stress and anxiety
- Enrich the memory
- Increase resistance – Looking for fresh ways to boost your stamina? You may want to give this group fitness class a vortex. Zumba is first and foremost a cardio workout, which can strengthen your heart and lungs while doing it also improve your circulation. This can lead to enhanced stamina inside and outside of a Zumba studio.
What can you expect in a Zumba Class?
Don’t consider yourself a dancer? Fear not: Zumba is famous for its non-judgmental and welcoming warmth. Attendees are encouraged to move creatively to the rhythm of the songs (such as the addictive “Que Viva la Vida”) instead of strictly following the choreography (which, we might add, involves easy-to-remember, repetitive steps and simple instructions) .
However, what you can expect in your first Zumba class will depend on the type of the Zumba class you take. There are many Zumba classes for specific interests and populations, such as:
- Aqua Zumba
- Chair Zumba
- Zumba for kids
- Zumba for Seniors (or Zumba Gold)
- Zumba Step (which incorporates moves typically found in Step classes)
- Strong by Zumba (a routine that includes additional strengthening exercises such as pushups and burpees)
Regardless of the class you choose, sessions usually start with a warm-up that gradually progresses into a higher-intensity dance/cardio workout with interspersed intervals. They finish with a refresher that incorporates essential stretches that can leave you feeling more refreshed. .
What Should You Bring to a Zumba Class?
Freedom of movement is a huge part of Zumba, so you’ll want to wear non-restrictive clothing such as yoga leggings and a breathable tank top. And don’t forget your feet! Your shoes should be comfortable, supportive and flexible
Once you have the right equipment, get ready to rumba: Zumba is the party you’ve been waiting for.
Embrace the global workout craze at Chuze Fitness
If you want to spice up your workout routine, Zumba can be the solution. Its enticing mix of upbeat and hearty music (and brain)-strengthening exercises can make a trip to the gym feel like a mini, ultra energizing vacation.
Chuze Fitness is the perfect place to start salsa-ing your way to enhanced health. If you want to sign up for a gym membership or start with a free 7-day Passour friendly team is excited to help you meet your fitness goals.
Reap the rewards of Zumba at Chuze Fitness.
Discover nearby locations in California, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Georgia, Florida and New Mexico. Whatever you are looking for gym in San DiegoSacramento, San Bernardino, or gyms all the way to Jacksonville, we’ve got you covered. Find your nearest location today and feel empowered to Chuze!
Sources:
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https://athletechnews.com/dance-yoga-were-most-popular-exercise-classes/
Zumba. The origins and staying power of Zumba.
https://www.zumba.com/en-US/blog/the-origins-and-staying-power-of-zumba
Women’s Fitness Clubs of Canada. A brief history of Zumba.
https://womensfitnessclubs.com/a-short-history-of-zumba/
BBC. Zumba: How a missing treadmill launched a global craze.
https://bbc.com/news/business-49111612
CNBC. How the founders of Zumba turned a video made on the beach with a Handycam into a global phenomenon.
https://www.cnbc.com/2018/07/19/how-zumba-exercise-class-went-from-an-idea-to-global-phenomenon.html
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https://www.businessinsider.com/how-zumba-became-the-largest-fitness-brand-in-the-world-2012-12
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https://www.zumba.com/en-US/fitness_facilities
Live strong. Basic Zumba moves to learn at home before your first in-person class.
https://www.livestrong.com/article/259945-basic-zumba-moves/
Clovia. The best Zumba songs to get you in the groove. https://www.clovia.com/blog/best-zumba
-songs-to-get-you-in-the-groove/?srsltid=AfmBOooD0asx9YdzgAe0-mMjr-aBK1tfhzTHVvmM1wnpoV5C-GwDseJk
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https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/zumba-what-it-is-health-benefits-and-getting-started/
Zumba. The Beginner’s Guide to Zumba.
https://www.zumba.com/en-US/blog/the-beginners-g
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https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-benefits-of-dance
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https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/endurance-vs-stamina
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https://classpass.com/blog/zumba-class/
Reviewed by:
Ani is the Vice President of Fitness at Chuze Fitness and oversees the group fitness and team training departments. He has had a career spanning over 25 years in club management, personal training, group exercise and instructor training. Ani lives with her husband and son in San Diego, CA and loves hot yoga, snowboarding and all things wellness.
