Zumba and other exercise classes

[Deena]

Having wanted to get back into regular exercise that was a little more energetic <and calorie burning> than walking my tiny dog, I've recently started attending Zumba classes. I tried a Step class, but that seemed to strain the backs of my calves and have been advised that Kettlebell can put a strain on a less than perfect back. :sad:

So far, I've found Zumba the most enjoyable exercise class I've ever done and I'm not clock watching in anticipation of the cool down period, heralding the end of my ordeal!

Anyone tried Zumba, what was your experience of it and any other exercise class recommendations? :biggrin:

 

[Larry21]

Zumba is fab I have been doing it nearly 2 years and have great fun and have made some great friends

 

[melissab]

I loved my Zumba class until they changed instructors. I've been looking into trying Zumba Tone which is Zumba mixed with weights.

 

[lynn amber]

I bought the zumba DVDs years ago and liked doing ,would like to go to a class but really struggle getting the time ,i do a pole class on a Tue and love it sooo much :-D

Sent from my LT18i using SalonGeek

 

[Noodle]

I do an Aqua Zumba class once a week and absolutely love it!

 

[GlamourPrincess]

I've been teaching Zumba for a year and a half now. I love it, it's so much fun and great exercise.

 

[LilMissEmmylou]

the instructor really does make or break the class - in my old gym when I started i went 5 times a week to zumba because i loved it (still do but find it a bit too easy cardio wise) but then the saturday class changed instructor and she was soooo rubbish!

 

[Wonda]

I've tried Zumba a few times but it's not for me, i have no coordination with between my arms & legs, can do one or the other .... not both.

Plus i have a bit of a dodgy knee, so all that bouncing about was just too knackering !!

I've started Yoga a couple of weeks ago & found i feel more energised after an hour & half of that than what i did an hour of Zumba.

Plus for the first time since i was 8 years old, i got my leg over my head ..... you never know when that may come in handy !!

In all seriousness, the day after, i know i've had a good session cause my muscles are achy & i feel more toned.

 

[Deena]

As with most things you do, the teacher/instructor can make or break your enjoyment/commitment to continue, I do agree.

I guess it helps if you actually enjoy any form of dancing where Zumba is concerned and I always have. I used to loathe every minute of a straightforward gym workout, be it cardio or weights, and this appears to have solved my dilemma. I have also got myself a Zumba dvd set for when I can't attend a class and want a bit more. Not sure I will enjoy it quite as much, but it's got to be better than nothing at all?

I would like to find another type of class that doesn't put a strain on any weaker areas, just for a bit of variety, but will keep searching.

Thanks for all your replies.

 

[cath4512]

I'm a fitness instructor & personal trainer & I teach lots of different classes.
The instructor is very importantr, so if yuo dont like how they tach, try a ifferent instructor.
My favourite class to teach is spinning. Its the one which burns the most calories & as it is low impact, it will not put any strain on your joints.
Also, try circuit training for a grart varied workout.

 

[deanosnana]

My fave workout is kickboxing. I love it because it's a great workout, burns a ton of calories, gives you self-confidence and makes you feel like you can conquer the world.