SHARES
I never actually got to know about Zumba much, until recently when I saw my favourite artist tweeting about it so often. At first I thought it was just some sort of album name or a friend of hers until I noticed the increase in her regular tweets about it. So that prompted me into doing a little research about this ‘zumba’ thing that she raves about.
A compilation of 2NE1’s CL on her Zumba hype. Image source: twitter.com/chaelincl
WHAT is Zumba?
Zumba is a form of aerobic fitness regime. It is a form of Latin-inspired cardio-dance workout that integrates the usage of both music and choreography steps which creates a form of fitness party atmosphere. A typical Zumba routine incorporates interval training; which means that it can alternate between fast and slow rhythms that help to build resistance as well. Zumba classes may vary in terms of music ranging from pop, jazz, hip hop to even African beats!
WHY Zumba?
Zumba is all about fun! It is not only a good way to burn off those calories, it also makes the whole exercising regime more relaxing and varied so you don’t come off bored from doing the same regime over and over again. Depending on how vigorous your session is, you may be able to burn as much as 400 to 600 calories every hour, which is twice the calories burnt from brisk walking on a treadmill (from my experience, I burn around 200-300 calories an hour).
Image courtesy: https://www.google.com/search?q=zumba&rlz=1C1GNAM_enMY680MY680&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwia-6iNrpLLAhXHCo4KHe3cCCgQ_AUICCgC&biw=1366&bih=643#q=zumba&tbm=isch&tbs=isz:l&imgrc=Iv0JDPk70SMC6M%3A
WHO can do Zumba?
Zumba is a form of activity that can be done by anyone from all shapes, sizes and background. You do not have to be a dancer or require any form of professional experience at all; you just wear comfortable attire and move along to the music. Don’t even worry about looking stupid in the room; everyone starts from somewhere anyway, so everyone probably has experienced something as a newbie.
Diverse group of children in a dance fitness class. Image from: http://hubchi.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Zumba-5.jpg
WHEN should I go to Zumba?
You can go whenever you desire! Just make sure your local Zumba class suits your timing. If time does not permit, there’s always the option of doing it at home because you can get DVDs and video games for you to learn if you don’t feel comfortable doing it with people around you.
HOW do I benefit from Zumba?
Zumba is more than just burning calories and fats, there are several other benefits you can enjoy from partaking in this regime. It helps improving your coordination, lifting your mood, increase in self-confidence, cultivates a good habit to go exercise and even make friends with your fellow Zumba buddies!
by Nicky Lee
Your typical neighbourhood ah pek who roams on the internet to satisfy his curiosity. Bold. Loud. Talkative. View all articles by Nicky Lee.
