Dancing is a great ally for those who want to lose weight and break a sedentary lifestyle without having to go to a bodybuilding gym. Those who are looking for a way to exercise and want to get away from the monotony, Zumba can be a good alternative.
With energizing music, a few simple moves, and lots of excitement, up to a thousand calories can be burned in just one hour of class. Even those who don’t know how to dance learn to perform simple dance steps mixed with local gymnastic moves set to Latin and pop music.
Zumba appeared in the 90s of the last century, which was created by Beto Pérez. The Colombian teacher had forgotten the class material, and faced with the need to improvise with a single Latin music cassette, he took the risk with some dance steps accompanied by aerobic movements. Thus, with the growing acceptance of the classes, Beto began to perfect the choreography and invest in the lagging market.
Full Zumba helps strengthen your legs and abs, and still stimulates muscles that don’t work in other sports. Running, for example, always has the same forward movement. On the other hand, the choreographies end up claiming other areas, such as the oblique muscles and the lateral muscles.
Benefits
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Granada, Spain, found that attending three dance classes per week can make people happier and improve their quality of life. Learn more advantages of the method:
- Increase metabolism and lose weight: the class works aerobic exercises that accelerate the heartbeat, which increases fat burning;
- Combat fluid retention: by improving blood circulation;
- Strengthening of the heart: the accelerated rhythm increases the resistance of this organ;
- In addition, stress relief: classes are held in groups and with live music, which relieves stress and increases morale;
- Improve motor coordination: rhythmic movements help control the body and coordinate movements;
- improve balance: movements that include constantly changing jumps, turns and steps;
- Greater flexibility: The class includes exercises to stretch the muscles.
Does Zumba Class Really Lose Weight?
Around three months it is possible to notice changes in the body, because the calorie burn for each category is high. However, the results may vary depending on the level of intensity at which the student trains and the physical preparation of each one.
Shapes
The Zumba program has some differences. But, any academic or teacher can specialize in any or all of them.
Zumba Fitness
Known as zumba fitness or simply zumba, the class is the most traditional and closest to the one in which the entire program originated. That is to say, dance steps are used, which are simple and somewhat more elaborate steps, combined with lively Latin music (usually very popular) and physical work on specific muscle groups.
Humming Water
The class takes place in a swimming pool and works on Zumba movements with the resistance produced by the water. Thus generating an activity that operates the body globally and intensely.
Zumba Gold
This method was specially made for the elderly. Work the same rhythms as Zumba in its original version, but with less intensity.
Zumba Gold Tone
This practice is derived from the Zumba Gold version. But allied with toning bars, which are light weights. This is done with the purpose of stimulating physical and postural strength, movement and coordination.
Zumba in the Ring
This practice is most effective for those who want to lose weight, as it combines dance steps with circuit training. But instead of being an hour long, classes last an average of 30 minutes and include strengthening exercises that rev up your metabolism.
Zumba Kids
In this modality, private classes are given to children between the ages of 7 and 11. In addition, these classes include activities and games.
Zumba Kids Junior
Like Zumba Kids, this one is held with kids ages 4-6 so they have space to socialize with other kids. Also, enjoy listening to music.
Zumba Step
It’s a combination of classes with step – a mini platform that simulates a step, with zumba. Thus, this type is indicated for those who seek to tone and strengthen legs and buttocks.
Zombies
It is made for families who want to introduce children from 0 to 3 years old in an environment that combines fun, music and rhythms that help in the development of the child.