Zumba
So, what is Zumba?
Zumba is one of the most popular group fitness classes in the world. Why? Because it's great fun. Each Zumba class combines dance moves inspired by samba, salsa, mambo and hip hop with classic moves from aerobics and martial arts, leaving you with a unique workout guaranteed to break a sweat and raise a smile.
Who created Zumba?
Legend has it that back in 1986, a Columbian choreographer named Alberto 'Beto' Perez forgot the music for an aerobics class he was teaching. Rather than cancel the class, he used the tapes (younger readers made need to look up what 'tapes' are on Wikipedia) he had with him to improvise a class with Latin salsa and merengue music.
The new class soon took off, as did Beto, leaving Columbia for America in 1991 where Zumba became an overnight sensation. Cut to 20 years later and Zumba is now available in 125 countries, an estimated 12 million people take classes each week and you can even buy Zumba clothes and dvds.
What does Zumba mean?
Zumba is Spanish slang for 'to move fast and have fun'.
What happens in a typical Zumba class?
Why, you move fast and have fun, of course. Each class lasts about 45 minutes with alternating fast and slow routines. As a result, you'll burn calories - up to 800 in 1 class - as you tone and sculpt your body.
Zumba's been described as "exercise in disguise" as the classes are so much fun you forget you're working out. That's why if you need a reminder that working out should be fun, give Zumba a go. You won't be disappointed.
I'm not a dancer. Is Zumba for me?
Most definitely. You don't need to know any dance moves to take part. In fact, as long as you're moving and enjoying yourself there's no wrong way to Zumba.
Are there any celebrity Zumbaholics?
Yes indeed. According to our internet-based research, the likes of Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Lopez, Natalie Portman and Jackie Chan regularly join the party.
Can I do Zumba at Fitness First?
Yes. Every single club holds regular Zumba classes which are free to members.