Understanding the Many Benefits of Zumba

Here's an excellent post I found on a blog this a.m. - the link to it is:

http://newsadvantage.blogspot.com/2009/04/understanding-many-benefits-of-zumba.html

They go on to say...

Some people may think that Zumba is just another overhyped exercise program. However, you may not realize that it actually took years to develop and is truly unique because of the variety of influences and original approach to exercising and dancing. Latin rhythms are a general part of the routine, so you get to enjoy music, stay fit and de-stress at the same time.

Physical Benefits

Zumba can keep you in shape, since you burn so many calories in a given session. Each class lasts approximately 1 hour each. Some say that you can burn at least 470 calories in a single session. You only need to do the workout 2 to 3 times a week to stay fit and lean. Zumba can also enhance your motor control and performance. As you go on practicing the moves, you get to have more control over your muscles and get on the groove easily. Zumba Gold, in particular, enhances the range of motion of exercisers, as well as their overall bone density, strength and flexibility.

Zumba is good for people of all ages. Even the elderly can gain physical advantages so they stay strong and supple even in their later years. If you want to get rid of the extra fat and stay fit for life, you can rely on the program since it helps you continuously expend calories and fat even while you're at rest by boosting your metabolism. Learning the new moves and steps also boosts your cognitive function. You get to increase focus and concentration. You may also find that you become capable of doing pain-free activities for the long term.

Mental Advantages

When you're fit or exercising, the body releases hormones that make you feel good. As an effect, you gain increased self-esteem and confidence. You get an overall feeling of wellness. Your quality of life also improves and becomes empowered. Relaxation becomes enhanced which takes away a lot of anxiety, depression and stress. There are more opportunities for social interaction. The routine is also very fun so you do not get the feeling that everything becomes redundant.

Zumba eases boredom by incorporating different tunes, steps and dances. You can stick to the program for the long term and reap the benefits of feeling good about yourself. It is also good to use Zumba together with other types of exercises like weight training. You stay motivated because of the enhanced self-satisfaction

Social Advantages

Zumba allows you to interact with other professionals and individuals who share the same problems and sentiments with you on a regular basis. You get to communicate, learn new steps and spend time together for added fun. You also get to understand different cultures more because of the international fusion of rhythms. As a whole, you get to be more aware about your surroundings.

Expert Advantages

Zumba also offers classes and workshops for individuals who want to do the exercise program more than usual. Certification and training are given for potential instructors. You may teach people of all ages from all over the world, depending on your abilities and personal preferences. You also receive more items and guides if you become an instructor, so you can become an expert in the activity you truly enjoy.

You will find that your skills enhance faster compared to other types of programs.

That was the end of their blog post. I would add the following:

The fact that you learn many basic latin dance steps that you can actually take with you when you're out dancing at a club, party or wedding. For example, I show basic moves and variations to Salsa, Rumba, Cha Cha, Tango, Cumbia, Bachata, Samba, Mambo, Reggaeton, Hip Hop, Merengue, Bellydancing (well, guess you wouldn't dance THAT at a nightclub - LOL!), Swing, Jive ... think that's about it!

Have a Zumbalicious day!

~ Heather ~