Zumba

[Jerseylicious]

I did a search and found some zumba classes - I've downloaded a couple and can't wait to try them. They look fun (and a lot of work too)

Here are two of my favorite:

http://www.youtube.com/christienj#p/a/f/2/p4e_AXTh9y0

and

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_jcprh0jAg
(this one is from a gym in my town)

 

[karenos]

I have been to a bunch of ZUMBA classes, but while I had lots of fun, I've never felt like it is that much of work out. I am not a dancer and in OK shape, but I feel like a kickbox or a step or spin class is a tougher workout.
I do love the music in ZUMBA classes, however.

Just my 2cents...
karenos

 

[clarabelle]

I teach spinning -but I just wanted to say that exercise alone (any kind) is not a good weight loss tool. You will probably lose a little -but not loads.

I see very few people at the gym who are losing by exercise alone.
There are plenty of reasons to exercise. Cardiovascular Health, Increase brain function in seniors, releases endorphins, prevents osteoporosis etc....

The people who really drop the pounds do a combination of aerobic exercise, weight bearing exercise and diet.

I haven't tried Zumba in a while -this thread is making me want to give in another shot.
I love Latin music

 

[mickeylove2]

I love Zumba! My girls' dance instructor also got certified as a Zumba instructor and it's awesome! We've been doing Zumba for about a year and a half, even my girls do it. Also, a really good dance sneaker is the best to Zumba in, you can get them in a dance store and they are usually with the jazz shoes. Sooooo comfortable!

 

[sunlver]

I have been to a bunch of ZUMBA classes, but while I had lots of fun, I've never felt like it is that much of work out. I am not a dancer and in OK shape, but I feel like a kickbox or a step or spin class is a tougher workout.
I do love the music in ZUMBA classes, however.

Just my 2cents...
karenos

I have heard some people say this. I think it depends on the Zumba class. For example, I watch a lot of ZUMBA classes on youtube..and they are all different then the ones I attend at the JCC. I think there are so many songs to choose from as well as intensity as well.
For me, if the instructor does a class of "old" songs(Meaning songs shes done a million times) I tend to sweat more and work harder. BUT..if she has a bunch of new songs, then I dont sweat as much because I am too busy trying to concentrate on the moves and where the arms and feet should be

I think its just like any other exericse thing. If it gets people off the couch and into a Zumba class, its better then doing nothing.

 

[paintnolish]

OP, thanks for posting this. I've been wondering the same thing. I go through phases of what I like to do...right now it is "nothing"! I got sick of step and spinning. I used to run, but IL weather is not condusive to that right now. I mostly use the elliptical and weight train, but I am so burnt out...

 

[Melrosgirl]

I've been doing zumba since last summer. I love it. I don't think it burns 500-1000 calories per hour though. If you even have one "slow" song in your class, I'm guessing that calorie count goes down. 500 calories perhaps, but definitely not 1000. It's a great workout, but your calories burned really depends on the class/song list.