Alberto “Beto” Perez started Zumba in Columbia during the 1990s. Beto is a choreographer and dancer that wanted to come up with a workout program that was fun and worked to get people into shape. He incorporated Latin and international music into a dance class that made working out seem more like a night out, instead of the chore many people think of aerobics being. His goal was to make people want to enjoy and look forward to their workouts, not dread them while making up excuses not to go workout.
Beto’s first Zumba classes in the United States started in 1999. He targeted mostly women and by 2001 Beto and had joined with some business partners to form Zumba Fitness LLC. This is the company that offers everything that is officially Zumba. There are now Zumba classes offered through licensed instructors in more than 90,000 fitness centers in around 110 countries worldwide. The program is recognized by the American Council of Exercise, IDEA Health, Fitness Association, and the Aerobics Fitness Association of America.
The main ingredient to Zumba classes is the music. The music, with its ever changing temp and beats, moves the workout from one strengthening, toning or cardio move to the other. Every muscle group in the body is targeted with this intense workout. The dance styles that are incorporated in Zumba include the following: Samba, Hip-Hop, Belly Dancing, Tango, Salsa, Cha-Cha-Cha, Flamenco, Mambo, Reggaeton and Merenque.
There are many different kinds of Zumba classes one can take. There is basic Zumba. This is targeted to beginners. Zumba Gold, which is for de-conditioned participants and adults. Zumba toning, which focuses more on toning and incorporates weights into the movements. Aqua Zumba, which is a class that takes place in water and is open to all ages. Finally there is Zumbatomic, which was launched in September 2009. Zumbatomic is the first Zumba program designed specifically for children. Children aged 4-12 can learn the basics while having fun with music and dance.
As you can see, Zumba works and is fun to do. A person can get in shape while learning the latest dance moves. How fun is that?
One of the first factors you will want to consider when selecting your Zumba clothing will be comfort. Zumba classes are dance orientated and you will be moving around a great deal during the workout. Though you want comfort in your clothing, you also want the clothing to look good on you while you workout. You want it to be flattering. Ideally the clothing should fit loosely and not restrict movement and look good at the same time.
You will sweat a great deal during your Zumba workout, wearing a headband or a bandanna will help with the sweat so it doesn’t get into your eyes and make the workout uncomfortable for you.
Shoes are next. You will want comfortable shoes that fit your feet properly. You just don’t want to show up to your Zumba class with old tennis shoes. Shoes that grip the floor too much will make your Zumba workout very difficult and could cause you to trip and fall. The best shoes for your classes will be dance shoes. They don’t grip the floor and will help you enjoy the class without potentially injuring yourself.
Jewelry is another thing to consider when starting your Zumba class. Try not to wear any at all. You will be dancing around and moving your arms all over the place. You could hit somebody next to you on accident with some of your jewelry during the workout. A ring can scratch somebody and there is really no reason to wear any jewelry to your workout anyway. Just take it off before class.
When it comes to dance and workout clothes there are many styles to choose from. Choose something that makes feel sexy and toned. It is important that you feel and look good when you are doing Zumba. Make sure you get a few outfits for your workouts since you will be sweating a great deal during your class. Zumba is an intense way to get into shape. Now you know how to look and feel good while doing Zumba. You also know how to stay safe. Now go have some fun with it.