At Miami Beach Gym, our Zumba classes are some of our most popular fitness classes. We get lots of questions every week from people who are curious about whether Zumba is an ideal cardio workout for them, so in today’s blog post, our fitness experts are breaking it down: What is Zumba? Where did it come from? Why is it good for me, and how can I try it?
If you’ve been wondering what all the Zumba fuss is about, or if you are trying to decide whether to give it a go, then read on to learn more! Feel free to swing by our fitness center in Miami Beach for personalized instruction and fun Zumba classes six days a week.
What is Zumba?
Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance workout that combines high- and low-intensity dance choreography to provide endurance-boosting interval training. Taking beats from dance styles like salsa, flamenco, and merengue, most Zumba classes feel more like dance parties than workout routines, which is why they’ve exploded in popularity over the last 20 years!
Zumba was first created in the 1990s by Alberto “Beto” Perez, an accomplished choreographer and fitness instructor. His goal was to create a fun workout that anyone could try and enjoy for hours at a time. You don’t have to be a dancer to enjoy Zumba — classes usually emphasize having a good time and moving to the music, no actual rhythm or dancing skills required!
What happens during a Zumba class?
Most Zumba classes have the instructor at the front of the class demonstrating the moves on-beat to the music, with the rest of the class following along. You won’t have to remember any choreography, and you won’t have to do any crazy dance moves. Zumba is easy to do and fun for everyone!
There are different kinds of Zumba classes — some use weights, some take place in the water, and some are just for kids. There’s a class out there for everyone!
At Miami Beach Gym’s Beach Body Health Club, we teach Zumba classes every day from Monday through Saturday. Check out our fitness class schedule to find a class that works for you, and feel free to drop in soon!
Is Zumba beginner-friendly?
Absolutely! Anyone of any age or skill level can enjoy Zumba. It’s a great workout, but it doesn’t feel like a workout — it just feels like fun! The only things you need to get started are a good pair of sneakers and a ready-to-dance attitude. Beginners welcome!
What parts of the body does a Zumba workout target?
Most traditional Zumba classes will help you strengthen your:
- Core: Many of the dance steps that are popular in Zumba routines target the hips and midsection, and many movements will engage your balance, creating a comprehensive core workout. Keep your tummy looking trim and strong by trying a local Zumba class in your area!
- Legs: You’ll likely be jumping and lunging throughout your Zumba routine, giving your quads, hamstrings, and calves a nice workout.
- Glutes: Feel the burn in your booty! Your glutes will definitely stay engaged while you dance and move around the room.
Although these parts of the body are not targeted in traditional Zumba workouts, there are some specialized Zumba classes available. Ask your local gym about their routines to see if there is an option to help you work out your:
- Arms: Some specialized Zumba classes incorporate weights and resistance bands to help tone your arms while you shake your booty!
How does Zumba improve overall health and fitness?
Zumba workouts are designed to get your heart rate up and raise your cardio endurance. They can also help you improve your body’s overall strength and flexibility. Keep it loose, lose weight, and strengthen your core by trying Zumba today!
Is there such a thing as a low-impact Zumba class?
Yes and no. Zumba’s strength is in its upbeat, bouncy, high-energy movements. If you are concerned about it being hard on your joints, then you may want to speak with your personal trainer or local gym fitness instructor about fun, low-impact alternatives.
Some gyms advertise “Aqua Zumba” classes, which are essentially water aerobics classes with incorporated dance routines. Ask your local gym if they have a low-impact Zumba option!
Where can I try Zumba myself?
Although there are plenty of Zumba DVDs and online videos to provide an introduction to the workout, there’s no comparison to trying it in the studio with an in-person instructor and a high-energy class!
If you’re in Miami Beach, then drop by Miami Beach Gym’s Beach Body Health Club for Zumba classes Monday through Saturday. Our experienced instructors will be able to show you everything you need to stay safe, get a great workout, and have fun!
Contact us to learn more about our Zumba classes, gym memberships, or answers to your fitness questions. Our staff at Miami Beach Gym is ready to help, so call now!