If there’s one fitness craze that’s proven to have serious staying power, it’s Zumba. Dance classes dominated the rankings of the most popular workouts in the country in 2023, with Zumba in particular making it into the top ten.
Known for its high tempo vibes, super fun music and absolutely successful community, Zumba provides a host of physical, mental health and social benefits.
But what is Zumba coursereally? What can you expect if you take it? And how can Zumba improve your fitness routine?
Let’s get into the topic.
The basics behind global fitness fashion
Zumba classes began to gain serious popularity in the early 2000s, but the concept actually 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 aerobics class—a list of pop songs his employer insisted he play., He improvised leading the class with a mixtape full of Latin tunes he happened to have in his car. The on-the-spot session turned into an innovative, lively mix of aerobics and dance moves.
It was, in a word, a complete hit.
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 was named the biggest 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 there was ever any proof of exercise popularity).
What is a Zumba Class?
Originally called “rumba” (or Colombian slang for “fun”), Zumba has retained its original flow of cardio exercises mixed with internationally inspired dance moves, such as:
- Salsa
- Merengue
- Hip-hop
- Bollywood style
- reggaeton
- Cumbia
- Samba
The general consensus is that Zumba does not feeling like an exercise. Instead, Zumba classes feel like a dance party to rousing songs by the likes of Shakira, Con Calma, Ricky Martin and Bruno Mars. It’s lively yet low impact and fast yet freeing, making it a popular workout choice for all ages and fitness levels.
What are the benefits of Zumba?
In addition to burning serious calories, Zumba can:
- Ensure full body toning – Squats, slides, flamenco arms: Zumba classes are full of targeted movements dozens different muscles, including your:
- Quads
- Calves
- Gluteus
- Core
- Shoulders
- Weapon
- Increase flexibility, strength and cardiovascular health – Constancy (but feasible (consistency) of Zumba classes can offer both aerobic and anaerobic benefits, while a selection of dance moves can nurture muscle strength. The stretches that end Zumba classes can also increase flexibility.
- Promoting mental and cognitive health – Exercise itself has proven to be a boon for the brain. In particular, creative dance classes like Zumba—which force the mind to adapt to the next step—can:
- Improve self-esteem
- Reduction of fatigue
- Increase concentration and alertness
- Control stress and anxiety
- Enrich your memory
- Increase stamina – Looking for new ways to boost your stamina? You might want to give this group fitness class vortex. Zumba is primarily a cardio exercise, which can strengthen your heart and lungs also improve your circulation. This can lead to improved endurance inside and outside the Zumba studio.
What can you expect in a Zumba class?
Don’t consider yourself a dancer? Fear not: Zumba is known for its welcoming, non-judgmental warmth. Participants are encouraged to creatively move to the rhythm of the songs (such as the catchy “Que Viva la Vida”) rather than strictly follow the choreography (which, we might add, includes easy-to-remember, repetitive steps and simple instructions).
However, what you can expect in your first Zumba class will depend on that type of the Zumba course you are attending. There are several Zumba classes for specific interests and groups, such as:
- Aqua Zumba
- Zumba chair
- Zumba for children
- Zumba for Older Adults (or Zumba Gold)
- Zumba Step (which includes moves typically found in Step classes)
- Strong by Zumba (a routine that includes additional strengthening exercises such as push-ups and burpees)
Regardless of the class you choose, sessions usually begin with a warm-up that gradually progresses into a higher-intensity dance/cardio workout with woven-in intervals. They end with a cool-down that includes basic stretches that can further refresh you.
What should you wear to a Zumba class?
Freedom of movement is a big part of Zumba, so you’ll want to wear clothes that don’t restrict you, like yoga leggings and a breezy tank top. And don’t forget your feet! Your shoes should be comfortable, supportive and flexible.
Once you’ve got the right equipment, get ready for the rumba: Zumba is the party you’ve been waiting for.
Embrace the global exercise craze at Chuze Fitness
If you’re looking to spice up your exercise routine, Zumba could be the answer. His enticing mix of upbeat music and body (i brain)-strengthening exercises can make going to the gym feel like an energizing mini-vacation.
Chuze Fitness is the perfect place to start salsa on your way to improved health. Whether you want to apply for a gym membership or get started with a free 7-day passour friendly team is delighted to help you meet your fitness goals.
Take advantage of the benefits of Zumba at Chuze Fitness.
Discover nearby locations in California, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Georgia, Florida and New Mexico. Whether you’re looking for gyms 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 with Chuze!
Sources:
Athletech news. Data shows that dance and yoga were the most popular exercise classes in 2023.
https://athletechnews.com/dance-yoga-were-most-popular-exercise-classes/
Zumba. The origin and endurance of Zumba.
https://www.zumba.com/en-US/blog/the-origins-and-staying-power-of-zumba
Canadian Women’s Fitness Clubs. A brief history of Zumba.
https://womensfitnessclubs.com/a-short-history-of-zumba/
BBC. Zumba: How a Missing Tape Started a Global Madness.
https://bbc.com/news/business-49111612
CNBC. How the founders of Zumba turned a Handycam beach video into a global phenomenon.
https://www.cnbc.com/2018/07/19/how-zumba-exercise-class-went-from-an-idea-to-global-phenomenon.html
Business Insider. How Zumba became the biggest fitness brand in the world.
https://www.businessinsider.com/how-zumba-became-the-largest-fitness-brand-in-the-world-2012-12
Zumba. What is the Zumba program? A new era has arrived in the world of fitness and a new face accompanying it.
https://www.zumba.com/en-US/fitness_facilities
Livestrong. Basic Zumba moves to learn at home before your first personal lesson.
https://www.livestrong.com/article/259945-basic-zumba-moves/
Clovia. The best Zumba songs to get you moving. https://www.clovia.com/blog/best-zumba
-songs-to-get-you-in-the-groove/?srsltid=AfmBOooD0asx9YdzgAe0-mMjr-aBK1tfhzTHVvmM1wnpoV5C-GwDseJk
Piedmont. 7 health benefits of zumba.
https://www.piedmont.org/living-real-change/7-health-benefits-of-zumba
Everyday health. Zumba: what it is, health benefits and how to get started.
https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/zumba-what-it-is-health-benefits-and-getting-started/
Zumba. Beginner’s Guide to Zumba.
https://www.zumba.com/en-US/blog/the-beginners-g
WebMD. The mental health benefits of dance.
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-benefits-of-dance
Healthline. What is the difference between stamina and endurance?
https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/endurance-vs-stamina
ClassPass. What is Zumba and why is it so popular?
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. She has had a 25+ year career 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.
