Zumba, a Latin-inspired popular dance fitness program, created by dancer and choreographer Alberto "Beto" Perez in Colombia during the 1990s, is proving to be the kind of workout men and women want—quick and fun with maximum results.
Perez turned his love of dance into a worldwide exercise phenomenon. The workout program, which offers a fusion of hip-hop, samba, salsa, meringue, mambo, martial arts, Bollywood and belly dance moves, has positively affected millions of people across the world.
“I’ve never had such a great time while working out,” said Tori Welling of Gilroy. "It honestly does not feel like exercise and time goes by so fast!"
Zumba involves dance and high intensity aerobic elements (squats and lunges) which result in a calorie blasting work out. Its benefits include increased cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility, reduced stress levels, enhanced metabolism, as well as an overall feeling of improved mental and physical health.
“After 7 months of attending Zumba classes four times a week, I have lost 15 pounds and my glute muscles and quad muscles are really defined and strong,” Says Welling. The squats and lunges are difficult, but the results are worth it.”
Still going strong after 15 plus years in operation, the Zumba business hosts a network of clases, licensed instructors, infomercials, CD’s DVD’s and more recently, video games!
Zumba’s vision is to fill the world's empty rooms with Zumba classes. Working hand-in-hand with its most dedicated Zumba instructors together, its goal is to spread the philosophy of health and happiness and of loving everything you do—most importantly your workout.
The creators of Zumba believe fitness is an important aspect of well-being that enhances the overall quality of one’s life. Instructors are committed to helping people understand and value the importance of health and fitness.
So, what exactly is Zumba and is it a match for you? Well, it’s a 60-minute group fitness class choreographed to today’s hottest latin tunes while combining cardio, strength, and stretch moves for a total body workout. Taught by certified Zumba instructors, every class includes a warm-up, high-intensity aerobic session set to exotic music, muscle toning and strengthening segment, and closes with a thorough cool-down. Participants get a total body workout. Zumba is suited for all ages, levels and body types.
Not only will you have fun in a Zumba class, but this form of exercise will sculpt, tone and lengthen muscles resulting in maximum fat burn! Watch that fat melt away as you burn up to 600 calories in a one-hour session! To pump up the calories burned during a session of Zumba, exaggerate your arm and leg movements.
“I love it and will never stop attending classes. In fact, I may even become an instructor!” Welling said with enthusiasm.
If you’re seeking a new, hot and spicy challenge, try a Zumba class at the following locations:
Gilroy: Gilroy Health and Fitness, YMCA, Curves for Women
Cupertino: Cupertino Sports Center, 24-Hour Fitness, Northwest YMCA
Los Gatos: Los Gatos Fitness, Los Gatos Health and Fitness, Core Fitness Studio
Campbell: Dance Effects, Campbell Community Center, Curves for Women
You can also visit the Zumba website for a detailed description on licensed instructors in your area.
