Earlier this year I discussed the latest fitness trend: outdoor workouts. But lately it seems everywhere I go, I’m hearing about this other new exercise craze: Zumba. So I thought I’d find out what it’s all about and if it’s for me (and my office-mates)…

What is Zumba?

Zumba combines the driving rhythms of Latin music and sizzling dance moves and routines that work every muscle in the body, in an atmosphere that makes participants forget they are exercising. Zumba mixes dance routines into exercise and makes exercising fun. The merengue, salsa, belly dancing, cumbia, and calypso are all part of the Zumba exercise and fitness routine. Zumba disguises the exercise to make it fun, which is much more appealing than another walk on a treadmill or set of squats.

What is the history of Zumba?
Zumba was created by chance about 10 years ago when a fitness trainer in Columbia misplaced his aerobics music during a training session. Without the traditional upbeat dance music on hand, he chose to play a selection of his favorite songs - including traditional Latin American genres such as salsa and merengue - and improvise a fitness routine to match the music.

How popular is Zumba?
According to online sources, Zumba has already reached 75 countries, being taught in more than 40,000 gym and spa destinations.

What are the benefits of Zumba?
According to Zumbacize.com, there are numerous benefits to Zumba workouts, including:
• Zumba is a fantastic core workout. It uses moves during the workout that target the abs and back to increase agility and strength with the potential to tone and sculpt the torso.
• Zumba is a great fat burning workout. Calories burned will differ from person to person depending on their fitness level, age, weight, and intensity put forth. Calories burned during one hour of Zumba have been estimated to be anywhere from 600 to 1,000.

BenefitOf.net also points out that Zumba is a great stress reliever. Zumba dance is all about letting go of your inhibitions and losing yourself in the dance movements. The energetic movements not only help in the release of endorphins that help in altering mood, but also help to melt away your worries as you drop yourself down in the Zumba music and movements.

Zumba at the office?
Yes, it’s possible to get Zumba classes into your office setting, either as part of your lunchtime fitness groups, or with a group of co-workers after hours. A great place to start looking for a teacher is through the Zumba Instructor Network, and for more general information about Zumba, check out Zumba.com. Your local fitness club or yoga center may also be able to help you find an instructor who can travel to your office.

Enjoy your new workout, and share with us your stories of Zumba with your co-workers!
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Contributed by Heather McCulligh