Disclaimer: To develop an exercise program that best suits your needs, please consult with your physician. It is important to talk with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
One of the biggest factors that stops people from exercising is the possibility of boredom. Many find that repetitive movements with little to no change or variation can become dull rather quickly, especially if there’s a lack of music or creative stimulation. Fortunately, there are plenty of effective exercises where this is not the case!
For instance, take Zumba. You may have heard of Zumba by watching commercials on television, hearing about it at your local gym or even by word-of-mouth. This powerful exercise is entertaining, motivating, and great for working out all areas of your body! For the individual who is looking to get the most fun out of their journey with weight and health, this kind of exercise is a must-try.
What Exactly is Zumba?
Zumba is a trendy cardiovascular exercise and dance that has quickly stretched across the U.S. and gained much popularity. The cardio movement that is involved helps to boost your heart rate and ultimately improve your heart and lung function.
As a dance, Zumba is inspired by Latin music with simple steps that are perfect for building an exercise routine. By following the three to five steps typically used per particular song and finding your groove – you won’t even realize you’re exercising!
Additionally, this energetic dance can be taught at any level — from beginner to advanced — and can be modified for most physical limitations you may have. Anyone can have fun and benefit from this exercise…men included! It is an all-inclusive, fun, energetic workout that can be a great asset to anyone’s journey with weight and health.
Understanding the Benefits of Zumba
Zumba helps aid in muscle tone by targeting just about every muscle in your body while improving balance and coordination. Similarly, you’ll burn plenty of calories (as much as 400-600 in one hour) and improve your cardio-respiratory health as well. To reap the maximum benefits of Zumba, be sure to have a consistent exercise routine (at least 30-45 minutes three to five times a week) and experience the following benefits:
Better balance- Increased energy in your daily activities
- Increased endurance during your exercise
routine - Lower resting heart rate and blood pressure
- Healthier body weight
- Decreased anxiety and depression
- And more!
Things to Consider for Zumba as a Workout
Zumba can be practiced anywhere — from a fitness class offered at the gym to the privacy of your own home with the Zumba-inspired DVD’s that are available most anywhere. Try the option that best suits your needs and concerns!
Here are a few important things to consider before beginning your Zumba workout:
Know Your Level – Are you advanced? A beginner? Intermediate? Knowing your skill and fitness level can help you and/or your instructor modify your workout routine so that you can reap maximum benefits.- Wear the Correct Shoes – Since there is a lot of running and pivoting on your feet, you need a shoe that is a bit flatter. That way, you won’t injure your knees. Also, don’t wear running shoes during this exercise! Running shoes are meant to propel you forward, not for using during side-to-side movements.
- Be Cautious of Your Health – If you know that you have knee, back or other types of pain, be sure to consult your doctor before beginning any kind of Zumba workout routine. This will also help you and/or your instructor modify your movements.
- Make it Count – For sustained weight-loss, it is generally recommended that one exercise at least 150 minutes per week. Try breaking up your workouts into 30-60 minute sessions a few times a week to avoid burnout.
For the ultimate muscle-toning and calorie burning workout, consider Zumba for your fitness goals! This entertaining, energetic and motivating exercise is great for all skill and fitness types, making it an excellent workout to use at any stage of your journey with weight and health.
Looking for More Information about Zumba?
You can read the full article from Your Weight Matters Magazine by CLICKING HERE.
