Some interesting points from an article I just read written with a Zumba instructor. What kind of results can I expect from Zumba®? Zumba® improves cardiovascular health, endurance, and weight loss. It has been found to burn more calories than standard steady-paced cardio like jogging, step aerobics, and power yoga. The reason for such a high calorie burning is it’s interval type style (lots of fluctuation between low and higher intensity movements) It also causes you to continue burning calories after the workout is over. Exercising for prolonged periods at such a high heart rate can increase the strength of your heart. That being said one must note that the intensity level of the workout will depend on how far you push yourself and get into each movement, so the actual calorie burn will of course depend on you. Dont forget that a balanced diet plays a big part in the results you’ll get, and to always get a good balance of cardio, strength training, and flexibility training. Do you recommend it for beginners? If you’re not used to choreographed dance you may have trouble keeping up in the beginning. Not being able to keep up may prevent you from reaching a level of elevated heart rate that is needed to reap the benefits. The key is to try the movements at your own pace until you get the hang of it and to go for it on the moves that you do know. As long as you like music you will be fine. “The most important thing is to move and have fun. The brain eventually catches up with the moves and simply brings your body to do it. What if you’re just not a good dancer? Some people unfortunately have two-left feet, but you’ll never know unless you try. Some people dont give themselves enough credit. “I always encourage new clients to try it for 3-4 weeks. Then they see the magic of the body and brain happening! See, so you can learn something too! Other Zumba® Benefits: - The fast paced Latin songs make moving quickly feel natural, so losing weight happens with ease. - Because it’s so much fun to do you’re less likely to quit. - The dance aspect of Zumba® can help improve balance and coordination. - The learning and memorising of the steps is a great mental exercise. - It’s fast pace will build endurance and increase lung capacity. Tips to get the most out of your Zumba® workout: -Consult a medical professional or exercise professional before joining if you have pre-existing health conditions, or are obese. High intensity aerobic workouts and obesity can be a heart-attack cocktail. -Workout at your own level. There are people of all fitness levels in Zumba® classes, be honest with yourself about your ability level. -Wear shoes with good support that allow you to move side to side and slide a bit. -Let loose and have a good time. This is the only surefire way to burn those calories. Don’t be self-conscious. Everyone is there to get in shape and have fun. -Fully extend your arms during the arm movements. This will increase calorie burning and engage the arm muscles more. -Push yourself to move up and down more on the appropriate movements. It will boost the calorie burn and help activate the glute, hips, and leg muscles. -If you miss a step or can’t keep up jog or march in place until you can get back in. Don’t stop.
Posted on: Wed, 05 Mar 2014 10:42:28 +0000
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