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Zumba

by on February 1, 2011

Henry‘s Rating: 3.0 / 5.0

 

Zumba Your Way Sexy?

Zumba is a Latin-based dance exercise program… Think Hip Hop Abs, south of the border. It’s a lot of fun and people seem to be loving it (to the point of DVD shortages and slow shipping), but does it work?

Can You Lose Weight and Tone Up with Zumba?? Let’s sniff it out…

Pros

Cons (Missing something)

Fun way to burn calories. May motivate some to get up and get moving. There are many claims that you can burn up to 1000 calories an hour doing Zumba. Maybe, maybe not (I’ll explain below).
Latin dance has natural core toning movements. If you’re not doing it right, you may not see the same results.
DVD’s as well as classes (in some areas). The instructors only take a one-day course to be qualified to teach Zumba.
Comes with fun maraca like toning sticks. The instructors only take a one-day course to be qualified to teach Zumba.

 

Will Zumba Just Be Another Exercise DVD Collecting Dust?

On one hand, I give Zumba credit for being a fun way to workout and as we all know, if you don’t enjoy your exercise program, you’ll be less motivated to do it. If you’ve grown bored with your current program and Latin dance is something you enjoy, then go for it! It may spice things up for awhile.

On the other hand, I’m afraid the big claims and hype over Zumba may have folks believing it will work miracles. As with any new program, there’s an expected learning curve. It’ll be awhile before you are doing the program effectively enough to burn that purported 1000 calories per hour, and even then, you’re really going to have to be moving!

And don’t forget, you still need to make the necessary diet changes to support weight loss AND your workout program. Zumba may have left out this important part of weight loss and toning, but Henry’s got your back!

It May Not Be Latin Dance, but It’s FREE and a GREAT Compliment to Any Workout DVD!

Boy, I wish I had some cool maraca toning sticks for you, but I do have something that can help you lose weight and keep it off for good!

It’s a 100% free weight loss report designed to help you conquer your cravings and let you in on the types of foods that are keeping you overweight as well as the types of foods that can help you burn fuel more efficiently.

Go ahead and Zumba your way fit if you’d like, but don’t miss out on this awesome FREE deal! My free weight loss report is a great complement to any workout program!

Save Your Money! Download the Health Hound’s FREE Weight Loss Report!

My 100% no-bull report “The Health Hound’s Fast, Safe, & Effective Way To Lose Weight Quickly!” has been downloaded over 137,782 times and has the simple action steps anyone can take to lose weight fast. All I ask in return is that you check out my free newsletter (you can unsubscribe any time!) that contains periodic health and weight loss tips and scam alerts delivered right to your inbox. You owe it to yourself to check this out!

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“I respect your privacy! Your information will NEVER be sold or shared with anyone.”

 

Don’t just take it from me! Here are a few emails from others who have checked out my weight loss report:

“Dear Henry,

I want to thank you for the weight loss report . I started on it 2/23/11 as of today I have lost 23 lbs. and feel great ! I am exercising and lifting weights along with the clean eating. This is the first plan that has helped me keep losing and not crave anything like I always did on other eating plans. again thanks for getting me on the right path I am so happy I found your website!”

Teri (Submitted on 2011/04/26 at 10:28 am)

“Henry,

Great download! I am a real skeptic – especially with downloads, but I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by your write-up. It makes sense! A friend recommended Sensa and after reading your site, I am (once again) too skeptical to try.”

Thanks again,
Beth

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56 Responses to "Zumba"

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  1. TiffanyynaffiT says:

    June 28, 2012 AT 6:02 pm

    Zumba works...granted I haven't lost much but I only do it 2 days a week. I lost 10 lbs in 3 months. I do also try to eat better and I walk a few days a week. Zumba is fun and if your looking for a exercise that doesn't seem like exercise because your having so much fun then zumba may be right for you. Time flies when your in class :)

    Reply
  2. Tisha says:

    May 29, 2012 AT 3:40 pm

    I have been reading numerous reviews on Zumba because I like to dance and need something that will keep me motivated to workout! I have 3 children, am 5'5" 180 pounds. I am thinking about ordering the DVD's. I am hoping to lose about 40 pounds. I would love any input that may be helpful! I used to dance, but being "thick" now as I call it :), I feel sort of awkward...I have always had a volupuious booty and hope that isn't the main place that I lose the weight! Any success stories or tips would be much appreicated!!

    Reply
  3. Deborah says:

    March 25, 2012 AT 5:13 pm

    Hi I have to add my two cents worth. I love Zumba and have been taking class for 7 months now and am down 12 pounds. It's fun and you don't even realize you're exercising.

    Reply
  4. Sara Khan says:

    March 22, 2012 AT 11:57 am

    This is highly recommended for all!! I'm a 14-year old girl and I' heard about this, yet never knew exactly what it was. Then I had a chance to experience it on a school trip to raise money for Sports Relief. TRUST ME, IT IS AWESOME!! You feel the calories burning, so don't think about it, go for it. Personally, I think going to an instructor is more beneficial, however, if you can't then getting it for the Wii/PS3/Xbox is fine ;)

    Reply
  5. Carol says:

    March 14, 2012 AT 12:30 pm

    Zumba is soo much fun! I actually recently started taking classes locally, and found some DVD sets that I can do at home too.

    Reply
  6. Connie Sue says:

    March 10, 2012 AT 3:00 pm

    BEWARE OF ZUMBA I ordered Zumba in January 2012. After two weeks I contacted them because I received no emails and no product. They finally found my order under my husband’s name (which I did not give them) and they said my card was declined. I asked them to place the order again because there was no way my card was declined. Two weeks later they did a bank capture with using my card but I received no e-mails and no product. The following week they did a bank capture for $211, no e-mails and no product. 3/2/12 they did a bank capture, no e-mails and no product. 3/9/2012 they did a bank capture, no e-mails and no product. Connie Sue

    Reply
  7. Me says:

    March 2, 2012 AT 1:14 pm

    Hello, Does Zumba have to be done every day to achieve results? Is 2x a week enough? Thanks

    Reply
    • Kristen says:

      June 12, 2012 AT 10:05 am

      2x A week might be enough, but I suggest 3. I have been doing Zumba 3 days a week for over a year now and have lost over 50 lbs. Yes, I did change my eating habits a bit, but Zumba gives your body tone. I've lost close to 7" off each thy! It is something that you have to work at, but i love it. It's a lot of fun. Just remember, the more your shake it, the more calories you burn. Have fun!

      Reply
  8. Howard says:

    February 20, 2012 AT 3:04 pm

    I started doing Zumba about 18 months ago when my wife and her friend challenged me to go. I'm now a licensed instructor but I don't actively teach (I just wanted to see if I could do it). I go to classes 5 times a week and a Zumba Jam session once a month. I absolutely agree with most of the comments, the instructor makes all the difference. I go to classes with 4 different instructors, I really enjoy 3 of them. I regularly take a heart rate monitor to classes, I usually push things up to 170-175. Oh yeah, I'm 68 years young.

    Reply
  9. Jess says:

    February 10, 2012 AT 8:29 pm

    I have been doing Zumba for about 7 months now. This is the first workout that I have stuck with. I go to class 3 times a week. I tried many classes and instructors before I found just the right one. I drive over 25 minutes to get to my class and I pass many on my way. The instructor is amazing! All the instructors class are so different. The one I found for me is pretty high intensity and that is what I love about it. On average, I burn 750 to 800 calories, and I am now 5'4" and only 115 lbs and I still can burn that many calories in an hour workout.

    Reply
  10. Zummmba says:

    February 4, 2012 AT 11:22 pm

    I wore a BodyBugg and I burned 850 calories in an hour doing a class. I've known people that burned around 1,000 calories so yes it's true. The more effort you put in to it, the more calories you will burn. Zumba is not a miracle weight loss tool. If you want to lose weight you have to work out and eat right, period. It's always going to come down to that. Make an effort and you should see results.

    Reply
  11. Ann says:

    January 28, 2012 AT 5:06 pm

    I love Zumba! I hate exercise and it is the one thing I will do. I go to classes at least 3 times per week (I am not the type who will work out at home on my own). It really depends on the instructor and atmosphere. I tried several places and instructors til I found a place that strickly does Zumba and has some wonderful instructors and a very personal, friendly approach. It's a great workout and the only time I am willing to sweat!

    Reply
  12. ed says:

    January 26, 2012 AT 12:15 pm

    I tried Zumba for the first time tonight after going to lift weights at the gym. I was terribly disappointed with it. I did not break a sweat or get the benefit of an aerobic workout. I spent an hour and a half in this class. Everyone else was sweating buckets, maybe it is not for me, maybe I expect more out of a workout. Yes, I gave it 100% and stayed hoping that at any time it would pick up and get my heart going. Sadly disappointed. Maybe I should try a different instructor, who knows, but I will say that it will not be on the list of things to do again.

    Reply
  13. Alpha says:

    January 17, 2012 AT 9:23 am

    I was also a skeptic of Zumba. After doing it 6 days and being more conscious of what I was eating I lost 5 lbs. I have a few exercise tape that I bought that I absolutely dreaded doing each time. I have the Wii version of Zumba and I look forward to doing it each day. Regardless of whether you are getting the routine just right (which I am sure I am not) I am moving and that is what matters. I have more energy-feel great and because you are having fun the 20 minute workout is over before you know it. I think Zumba will really benefit anyone trying to live a healthier lifestyle. Be happy and healthy in 2012!

    Reply
  14. Heather says:

    December 26, 2011 AT 8:30 am

    I agree with all of the above comments. It's hard to even explain how the success of zumba takes ahold of its participants. I too have seen people completely transform themselves. zumba is like my church. I really don't look forward to going anywhere likeI do in regard to the workout club. The instrucors get the community involved in volunteer opportunities and run fun, holiday zumbathon parties. Leslie, you should talk to your local zumba instructors. Certainly you can modify your workout. You will really need to pay attention to your cardio threshold. Zumba pushes you to the limit, ie I carry food and extra water in my car to. replenish on my way hom I have felt a blood sugar drop, post workout.

    Reply
  15. Rachel says:

    September 30, 2011 AT 9:52 am

    I have been doing Zumba for 2 1/2 months now, and I have lost ten pounds, which isn't bad because I have only made minor changes to my diet. I have a heart rate monitor and you have to really push yourself but I did once burn 995 calories doing the 57 minute Zumbathon on the Wii Zumba Fitness game. Zumba is terrific, I know its been said but not only am I losing weight, I feel fantastic, have more energy, and my mood is better.

    Reply
  16. littleleers says:

    September 11, 2011 AT 1:48 pm

    Just got my license to do Zumba. Please note: trained in Zumba means you are licensed to use the trademark name. It DOES NOT mean you are certified. Certification is for certified personal trainers and/or certified group exercise fitness instructors. These certifications require a couple of months of study and then a one day workshop and test. There is no test with Zumba. And, it is true, to be a good Zumba instructor you must practice extensively, know how to cue effectively and that, you will not master in just a one day training session.

    Reply
  17. Leslie says:

    August 10, 2011 AT 6:13 pm

    I have emphazema and am on oxgyen at night only thus far. I need to drop about 80lbs and am wondering if this would work for me, can anybody help with that question? Also where I live I have only found 2 instructors, would I be better with the dvds or gym?

    Reply
  18. Arron says:

    July 15, 2011 AT 5:53 am

    ON THE ZUMBA WEBITE IT SAYS 400 CALARIES PER HOUR NOT 1000!!!

    Reply
    • Suzie says:

      July 16, 2011 AT 3:12 am

      My sister in law has done Zumba for 9 months now and has lost 70 pounds! The instructor has done it for a couple years and has lost over 150. As far as my sister in law, she did cut out soda but her diet has stayed the same. She's never been one to over eat or eat junkfood. I've seen the results in her and its amazing. She goes 5 times a week and dances for about an hour or so

      Reply
  19. Gen says:

    July 5, 2011 AT 8:04 pm

    I take Zumba classes 3-4 times a week. I love it... when I have the right instructor. There are 2 instructors at my gym that teach a Zumba class that is worth my time. I have lost weight and my cardio is greatly improved. Don't write off Zumba until you've tried it with several instructors. I've had at least 6 or 7 different instructors and I only really enjoy the classes taught by 2 of them.

    Reply
  20. Van says:

    May 2, 2011 AT 12:09 pm

    I stop doing zumba when I came out pregant 3 years ago. (Hi risk pregnacy) I returned to doing zumba when my son turned 1 and I have lost 40 lbs. Went from a size 22 to a 12 and I'm still working to lose 15 more lbs to get into that size 8. Once I reach my fitness goal I will continue to do zumba because I love my instructor and I relieve stress. I have change my eating habits for the most part I drink more water less sugar drinks, more salads with meals and smaller portions. And in an average night I do burn 600 to 800 calories. The more you move the better it is. Shoes are a big deal no running shoes. Light weight dance or aerobic shoes are the best.

    Reply
  21. Dorothy Hunt says:

    March 28, 2011 AT 10:36 am

    I do Zumba with the Curves Circuit twice a week and the Curves Circuit alone twice a week. With some minor dietary changes, I have lost 17 pounds and 18 inches in 5 months! I love the Zumba - it is very energizing, when I do it in the morning, I feel great all day. I am 69 years old and have never felt better in my life!

    Reply
    • Linn says:

      April 6, 2011 AT 11:36 am

      Thank you Dorothy Hunt for your post. I was reading about Zumba and felt that I was too old to try it. After reading your comments I am going to give it a try.

      Reply
      • ZumbandoV says:

        May 2, 2011 AT 12:02 pm

        Zumba can be as fun as you let it be or as boring as any other exercise program. The cool thing about zumba is that you could do hip-hop, reggea, line dance actually you could do it to any music even ROCK. And if you have a good instructor you will have the squats and knee lifts and you will not even notice. My favorite things to do are abs in my routines (had a baby 1 yr ago and it helps me and my students). Nice smooth and fun... By the way @ Linn I have a 76 year young lady in my class. Moderation is the key.

        Reply
  22. Patsy says:

    March 10, 2011 AT 7:39 am

    I use to exercise regularly over ten years ago. I hurt my knees and have put on weight every year since. I started Zumba just three weeks ago and changed my eating habits. I have lost 8 lbs already! I do the Zumba and toning and our instructor really does a great job at working us hard. I have 40 more lbs to go and I plan on dancing my way into my size 7's again! Who cares what the critics say if it works for you then stick with it!!

    Reply
  23. Christine Herl says:

    February 12, 2011 AT 10:37 am

    I am wanting an exercize program I can do. It has to be fun. Thank you, Chris

    Reply
  24. Sue Michetti-Zin Member says:

    February 10, 2011 AT 9:19 pm

    As a fitness professional/group fitness instructor of 28 years I have often been asked my opinion of "the best exercise". My reply has always been (and remains) that the best exercise for any individual is the one that you are going to do. Zumba creates this fun "PARTY" atmosphere that keeps students coming back for more. Consistency in exercise is where we see health benefits. It's where we become better daily calorie burners. Zumba is a refreshing change - everyone should give it a try! Go to Zumba.com to find a class near you!

    Reply
  25. Kelly Powell says:

    February 10, 2011 AT 10:47 am

    Zumba is aaammmmaaaaazzziiing.. Its just so much fun..i went out last weekend and though i was the zumba queen.. and o my did i ache the next day.. i never ache after a night out.. every one is loving it at the MO and highly recommend it to any one..

    Reply
  26. Paul says:

    February 10, 2011 AT 10:42 am

    @Valerie - yes you need to relax and have fun! If you know the salsa steps it will make it a tad bit easier but just follow the instructor and if you get lost do your own thing, and I am not sure if I mentioned it but have fun!

    Reply
  27. valerie says:

    February 9, 2011 AT 7:12 pm

    hi i am going for first time is there any thing i need to do? i am a working mom 43.

    Reply
  28. Kaylen says:

    February 9, 2011 AT 8:33 am

    Let's see, would I rather "WORK"out, or would I rather DANCE? Zumba is about DANCE, not aerobics! Dancers had this figured out years ago..... It is kind of funny to read all of the science people try to tack onto Zumba, lol!!! Sure, it is briefly discussed, but REALLY, Zumba is about dancing, as if you were at a club or party! The instructor guides you through your routines, hopefully they are about dance, and NOT about aerobics and leg lifts!

    Reply
  29. Tony says:

    February 8, 2011 AT 4:08 pm

    Correction to your calorie information above in the Cons section: Depending on choreography and intensity of your Zumba session it is possible to burn up to 1200. I wear a calorie counter and have burned between 500 - 1200. Factors to look at: Length and type of class. I am also a fitness trainer, AFAA certified and have a dance back ground. I enjoy teaching every format Zumba has to offer because it is fun and I see the results in my participants. They are loosing weight, toning up and gaining confidence.

    Reply
  30. Jo-Ann says:

    February 8, 2011 AT 1:30 pm

    If you really want to kick it up a notch, try the Curves Circuit with Zumba. There is an instructor in the center of the circuit and you dance for 1 minute and do strenght training for the next minute. Excellent program and only 30 minute long. Jo-Ann

    Reply
    • Karen Wright says:

      February 9, 2011 AT 12:34 pm

      Today I tried the Curves Zumba Circuit Workout and it was brilliant. I really felt as if I had had a good workout plus it was fun and everybody came away smiling. Who cares if I don't burn of 1000 calories, it's all about having fun. Give it a go and see what you think (and feel) afterwards.

      Reply
  31. Jeannine Crader says:

    February 8, 2011 AT 7:01 am

    Zumba's return policy has a major flaw. I gifted friends with an XBox 360 video only to learn their XBox had "gone to college" (their son took it with him) so they can't use the video. In my efforts to return this version I can't get past "enter your order number as shown......" which info is necessary to get the needed FedEx shipping label, etc. I haven't seen this particular complaint anywhere on your website. Any comment?

    Reply
  32. Trish Higgins says:

    February 8, 2011 AT 3:18 am

    can anyone tell me the best shoes to wear to Zumba. Went to my first class last night-great! But my trainers seemed too heavy and stuck a bit on the floor-it hurt my knees a bit. Going again Wednesday-loved it.

    Reply
    • Mikki says:

      February 8, 2011 AT 11:45 am

      Trish Higgins: in the zumba class I currently take, we go barefoot on a slightly padded no-slip floor (usually used for martial arts classes); a previous one I wore jazz shoes on a wooden floor. I think it depends on the floor and what works for you--if your knees hurt, something is wrong. You should only feel the muscle burn/ache, not pain. Good luck.

      Reply
      • Karen says:

        February 8, 2011 AT 1:27 pm

        Shoes, I recommend Nike Musique sold at Foot locker or a dance aerobic shoe. Stay away from running or walking shoes as they are meant for forward motion. You need to move side to side and too much rubber on bottom @ sides will not allow this movement. Zumba is fun and the key to anyone's success at keeping fit is to find something you love and you'll never look back! ZIN member Karen

        Reply
        • Ida says:

          March 9, 2011 AT 1:40 pm

          As for the shoes, I have ordered mine online www.dancewearsolutions.com for zumba. As for the comments above, I agree, zumba is great in motivating people with music and the party atmosphere. I've tried circuit training/Curve's etc. I was easily BORED and soon enough quit each time. With zumba, I have lost inches, gained self-confidence and muscle tone, greater endurance. Additionally, having metabolic syndrome (1 of the culprits being diabetes) my doctor was amazed at how fast (within 6 months) I was able to "shave" off 3 prescription drugs from my list of medicines. She was even interested in learning more about zumba. I am currently 3 weeks away from completing 2 years in zumba. I feel energetic and I won't give it up for anything!!!

          Reply
  33. Lisa says:

    February 7, 2011 AT 9:13 pm

    There is always a party pooper hanging around. Why try to discourage people when the program works for many. I do believe the Zumba seen on tv recommends eating a balance diet for best results. I am a certified Zumba instructor, and I have lost 35 pounds with Zumba (and yes....by slightly changing my eating habits, portion size and no fast foods). I have had students who have lost weight also. My beef: Not all Zumba instructors follow the formula in my opinion....I hate going to a Zumba class and the instructor plays only 1 out of 15 songs that is a Zumba song....USE ZUMBA MUSIC and steps, otherwise, let's not call it Zumba....this does Zumba an injustice, no wonder it may not be effective for some ! We get choreography every other month from Zumba, so there is no excuse for that !!

    Reply
    • Mechelle says:

      February 8, 2011 AT 1:02 pm

      I am also a licensed Zumba instructor and disagree with this review. Yes, it was a 1 day course, but unless you want to look like an idiot, its weeks, if not months of prep. The proof is in the pudding. I went from a size 12 to a size 3 in 6 months and I do not diet..at all. Initially, I was putting in 5 days a week, but have been able to maintain at 2 days a week. Weight loss isn't going to happen magically. It takes a little work. I can say that I am not a fitness instructor, but a ballroom dance and I lead just as effective a class. Honestly, say what you will about our training and results. We can barely contain our classes to the walls they're so large...........

      Reply
  34. della says:

    February 7, 2011 AT 5:23 am

    Hi even if zumba doesnt do everything it claims. I am not sure yet, with all the overweight people in th us doesn,t everyone think that anything that gets people moving is a good thing

    Reply
  35. Hong says:

    February 6, 2011 AT 8:15 pm

    As a Zumba and Group Ex instructor I have to disagree with many of your statements. It took me one day to train but 3 months to successfully achieve my standards of a good instructor. I got my abs from Zumba and theres absolutely nothing wrong with this program! Zumba is not responsible for your diet which plays a very important role in losing weight. That is YOUR OWN responsibility. Zumba is offered as a fun workout for anybody and it works! People go crazy for Zumba!

    Reply
  36. Robin says:

    February 6, 2011 AT 4:51 pm

    Jazzercise only lays claim to 600 calories burned at full tilt, and they incorporate weights in the last 15 minutes, both hand, and if you choose, leg weights. It is done within 60 minutes so no need to transition to the gym for weights. But I've heard great reports about Zumba, and if I was somewhere where Jazzercise wasn't, I'd do Zumba. I know a Jazzercise instructor who does both and swears by them both. Then again, my other friend grew tired of it after a month and decided Jazzercise was more complete, along with their instructors having extensive training in both diet and exercise. They also point out that the best way to lose weight is proper eating along with exercise. Where Zumba is composed of 75% instructors who are trained ACE, Jazzercise instructors are 100% trained in all aspects. So it depends on the person and what they are interested in. The Jazzercise studio we attend rocks out all the time, and I do mean rock, even our grannies.

    Reply
  37. Barry says:

    February 6, 2011 AT 3:23 pm

    I also find your report to be incomplete and somewhat biased. Many specialty proigrams like Zumba have a one day training, but as stated above, many of us zumba instructors are certified group fitness instrucotrs, and in order to maintain our zumba licnese, we have continued training and an annual zumba convention. The reason for the popularity is that the class is fun, the music is motivating and that keeps the people coming back each week for the class. WE have all had members in our classes with stories of weight loss and feeling better about themselves.

    Reply
  38. Linda says:

    February 6, 2011 AT 2:27 pm

    Thank you all for Zumba info. I've ordered the DVDs and am hopeful they will work. If nothing else, it will get me moving with a smile!

    Reply
  39. jessica says:

    February 6, 2011 AT 8:28 am

    My Instructor took zumba for 3 years before she became an instructor.She is also a licensed fitness instructor. I dont diet.. just watch what I eat. In 3 months Ive lost a total of 37 pounds. So YES zumba does work and you do see results , build more endurance and energy.

    Reply
  40. Char says:

    February 6, 2011 AT 7:52 am

    As a Zumba instructor myself, I find your report just a tab bit incomplete. While you do address a few valid points there are many others to consider. And yes, there is a social aspect to Zumba that enhances the participant’s experience. Zumba is meant to be a fun, party going experience to help the student enjoy their exercise experience. I would have to say that more then 75% of Zumba instructors are either ACE certified exercise / fitness instructors or an equivalent. Zumba also has a very well rounded program, Zumba Gold for adults in their golden years, Zumba Toning, Aqua Zumba and, Zumbatomic for children. Zumba is one of the MOST FUN, effective and, safe ways to enjoy a fitness regimen that covers it’s bases!

    Reply
  41. Jo says:

    February 6, 2011 AT 3:52 am

    ZUMBA is a great way lose weight but there is the social aspect of it 2. Like any exercise regime you only get out of it what you put in so if you are really energetic and can do all the hip movements etc then you will benefit alot more than those who don't. I love it and it is definitely here to stay just wish there was more classes taking place in and around where I live and back hoem in North Wales.

    Reply
  42. Michelle says:

    February 5, 2011 AT 8:04 pm

    I recently bought the Zumba for the Wii, and i absolutely love it, its a great workout,and can be done at home. I highly recommend it.

    Reply
  43. Faith says:

    February 5, 2011 AT 5:36 pm

    While your points against are valid, I would like to point out that many ZUMBA instructors are already licensed fitness instructors, or choose to become so to better serve their classes. I agree that not having this as a prerequisite or a longer training program in lieu would be helpful to maximize the fitness component. Also, because it is fun and entrancing, most people do come back regularly , and thus reach their calorie burning potential quickly. Any kind of movement, especially those based on sound fitness principles, are better than no movement at all and ZUMBA fitnes is certainly getting people moving. It's not going anywhere.

    Reply
    • Jen says:

      February 6, 2011 AT 6:18 am

      Well Said ~ Kathy & Faith! Thank you. A lot of us have previous dance backgrounds/study and already are certifed AFAA, ACE, IDEA, etc. group instructors/personal trainers. Those Zumba instructors trainings ARE NOT easy! They pack a lot in. I've put in 18 hours now for trainings and by the end of the month will have 36 hours invested in trainings for Zumba alone. Jen ZIN member

      Reply
  44. Kathy says:

    February 4, 2011 AT 9:05 am

    I started doing exercise classes (most recommended) in October 2011. I participate in two step aerobic and 3-4 Zumba classes per week. I've lost a minimum of 34 lbs and from Nov. 2 - Dec. 31 =>13 inches. You can get a very worthwhile workout at your very first class, although, agreed, it can take a few lessons to learn how to keep everything tight for the maximum effect. About a month ago wore a calorie burn counter - one hour of Zumba burned 807 calories. Although I don't follow it, Zumba offers a diet plan to go with the workouts, so they have not missed the healthy eating aspect of fitness.

    Reply
    • Astrid says:

      February 10, 2011 AT 1:59 pm

      Please be informed that Zumba is not a new excercise program at all...it has been around for 10 years. Yes the last couple years it has taken off in the USA...and worldwide now. Having been a past instructor of step aerobics, jazz dance and flamenco instructor in my youth(now 55), after having gained a bit of weight and inches,,, and losing energy, Idecided to get in shape, but dreded the the thought of gyms. No Zumba does not work miracles, like any other healthy excersize program, for it to work at it's maximum level one needs to be on a balanced diet. After 8 months of twice a week with Zumba I have gone from a size 6 regular to 2P. Yes I do recommend additional weight lifting program, if you want a great body...at 54 I still enjoy bread, deserts and wine....in moderation with lots of Zumba. I like it so much that since I can't take my instructor with me overseas, I decided to become an instructor and "pay it forward"!!!!

      Reply
      • Colette says:

        March 4, 2011 AT 2:22 pm

        I do Zumba 3-5 times a week and its paying off for me. In the first month of doing Zumba, I lost 11.25 inches. I just love it. I am also eating low carb, but I know that Zumba is responsible for the lost inches, and I am feeling toned. I think someone mentioned the type of shoe to use..I use Puma's. I want to get some other type of dance shoe too. I just love Zumba!!!

        Reply

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