Zumba!

May 05, 2012

I Zumba. This is a high energy, fast paced, dance inspired work out that is sweeping the nation. I started on a whim and have actually fallen in love this crazy and wiggly way to work out.

When you first start Zumba, it really feels like each class is just an hour long torture session. The movements are very fast, and like most dance classes, the teachers move quickly. If you are blessed with less than a perfect sense of rhythm and body awareness (like I am!), those first classes are just awful! I spent at least three full sessions essentially wiggling around as I started to learn the moves and transitions. My advice is to go to more than one lesson before you decide if Zumba is right for you or not. The first classes are so intense and hard to follow, it can give off a bad impression. If you put in the time needed everything gets easier, and all of that wiggling actually produced a nice sweat and elevated heart rate! Also, make sure you get into a class where you feel comfortable with the teacher. Make sure she (or he, I suppose) gives directions in a manner you can understand, even if it takes your body a few weeks to get used to what you are doing Then, if you keep it up, it actually becomes fun!

If you are interested in Zumba, the Library has a number of books and DVDs that can give you a good idea of what the class entails. Just ask your librarian to look up 'Zumba!' But really, the best way to know about Zumba is to join the party yourself! There are classes at the KC Ballet School of Dance and Creativity in Downtown KC every Monday (5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.), Wednesday (6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.), and Saturday (9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.). If you can't make it downtown, check out your local gym or community center to see if there is a class that fits your schedule!

Katie L
Red Bridge Branch