The Zumba is a dance exercise program developed by the dancer and choreographer Alberto “Beto” Pérez during the 1990s. The concept came about when Perez forgot to bring his music to an aerobics class, and had to resort to his Personal collection of Latin music instead. The Latin inspiration class was a hit and so was Zumba nation.
What is zumba?
The combination of Latin rhythms, international music and dance creates a unique festive atmosphere. Perez developed the program with the aim of combining sport and fun. Zumba is a fun way to exercise, it’s like a party and everyone is welcome, no matter what age, fitness or dance level we have.
Routines use intervals by combining fast and slow rhythms to optimize the amount of energy consumed, and the training uses a variety of dance moves such as salsa, mambo, samba, flamenco as well as movements more modern, including hip hop.
Unlike many other fitness classes that are done in groups, there is no need for any equipment; you just have to choose a place within the class. The music begins and the instructor begins to move. Beginners are advised to pay special attention to the instructor to memorize the movements as soon as possible, unlike other gym classes the instructions are mainly visual rather than vocal.
Zumba promotes the use of all body parts, you work your legs, and arms, waist and abdominals, and the songs change in rhythm meaning you are training at fast and slow intervals as well. Ultimately, a great cardio workout is performed which produces a great combustion of calories mainly by the fact of using all parts of the body, both the lower train, as the upper train. In order to get the most out of a Zumba workout you really have to work hard.
There are no Zumba levels, classes are open to everyone. It all depends on how much each one wants to work, you can achieve different results in the same class some burn 300 calories and some can even burn up to 800 kcal.
One of the best parts of Zumba is the fact that it is fun, and if you go with friends you are definitely going to have fun. In class there is usually a wide variety of people and nobody judges anyone, you should not worry about your level or experience, we just have to worry about enjoying and striving to the maximum.
There are a few things to keep in mind when practicing Zumba for the first time. You may experience some pain the next day, especially around the waist, but the pain will certainly be bearable.
To avoid these problems we must make sure to warm up properly to avoid damaging any muscle, without forgetting to stay hydrated. It is important to always go with a bottle of water when we go to practice zumba.
If you are prone to cramps, eat a banana before participating, as potassium helps prevent muscle cramps that may occur during the class.
Definitely Zumba is a fun and effective way to stay in shape, as well as being a great way to socialize and have fun.