Zumba

Author: Kaitlyn Short

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The Good

• Anyone can do it
• Many classes to choose from
• Affordable

Virtually anyone can follow the Zumba fitness program. One doesn't have to be a fitness guru or well-conditioned athlete to enjoy it or even have successful results. People of all ages, body types and backgrounds - even kids - won't have much difficulty starting with Zumba. Secondly, there is no shortage of classes to choose from. Several newer variations of the classic Zumba class exist, so that if one is looking to switch up their routine, they can simply try a different kind of class. The most popular and accessible way to follow the Zumba fitness program is through gyms. Zumba classes are taught by certified trainers and instructors in health clubs, gyms and local fitness centers throughout the world. In fact, Zumba is available in more than 200,000 gyms in more than 180 countries. More than 15 million people take Zumba classes each week. Zumba claims that you'll burn 500 calories or more during a class, and that you're highly likely to see quick, tangible results. The class is a full-body workout, emphasizing legs, core and calorie-burning cardio. The cost is also fair. Zumba classes are often included with the cost of your monthly or annual gym membership, so you can go as often as you like without spending extra cash. If Zumba isn't included with your existing membership, the cost is typically around $10.00 and gets cheaper if you buy a multi-class package. Zumba classes themselves do not have customizable plans, per se; however, one appealing feature is the wide variety of Zumba classes available. There isn't one Zumba workout; rather, people may select from any number of classes-whatever fits their needs. For those who don't have easy access to a gym, the train-at-home option is ideal. You can work out wherever you want and whenever you want with more than a dozen workout DVDs, including those for Xbox, Wii and Kinect. In addition to workouts, users can purchase Zumba clothing and accessories. These include shoes, swimwear, shorts, pants, shirts, jackets, cargo pants, leggings, capris and more. If you like Zumba, you can easily wear your enthusiasm on your sleeve. Zumba has a tremendous presence on social media, which acts as the primary mechanism for connectivity and support groups. Zumba has an active and popular following on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, as well as a robust blog on its website. Participants share experiences and successes, ask questions and provide motivation and support. During our review, we found active participants of varying ages, backgrounds and cultures - a sign that Zumba backs up its claim that it really is for anybody.

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The Bad

• No online tracking or tools
• Minimal nutrition and health information
• Can be difficult

Zumba doesn't offer any online tracking or other tools for users to record their progress. You'll need to chart your progress another way or see if your gym offers a tracking feature. The Zumba Life blog also has minimal nutrition and health information, nor is there much elsewhere on the website. If you don't have dance experience or you aren't accustomed to strenuous cardio workouts, you may experience difficulty picking up the steps and keeping pace with the class initially. Instructors quickly break down the workout routines and may not have time to provide individual corrections if it's a large class. However, Zumba is designed so that even the inexperienced can follow along and then add more strenuous movements to the routine as they progress.

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The Bottom Line

Zumba is requires no previous training or a high level of fitness to get started, and it offers a fun environment to exercise in. Classes are available just about everywhere and the instructors are all certified through Zumba's training program. Zumba could increase the overall quality of its program by providing complimentary health or nutrition information for those interested in a fully-fit lifestyle, but you may get all the support and motivation you need through its extensive community network.