How to Zumba

Their catch phrase, "Ditch the workout, join the party" is attractive to all of us who have struggled with boring gym routines and strenuous fitness plans. That said, this type of exercise is not for everybody. You've got to enjoy dancing.

No wonder the Zumba Fitness program has caught on so quickly. According to the Zumba.com website, the class is taught by thousands of instructors in over 105 different countries - but did you know that you can learn Zumba and do the workout right in your own home?

Zumba Fitness offers a complete 6-workout system with maraca-like toning sticks that give you even more sculpting benefits. With six different workouts, you can do a different routine almost every day of the week. You don't have to worry about getting bored, and the music will keep you motivated. You just need a DVD player and little bit of space to get this program to work for you.

You don't have to buy any workout equipment or clothing you can wear a comfortable pair of tennis shoes and workout clothes that you already have. However, I did find that there is such a thing as a "Dance Sneaker" that people really like for dance routines such as this one. These shoes are good for absorbing shock and stabilizing your heels, and you can actually get them for under $40. (and they look cool!) Unisex NRG Wave Dance Sneaker

I've also gotten into the habit of wearing a heart rate monitor watch while I am working out. It's very helpful when you want to keep your heart rate in the "aerobic training zone", which will maximize the effectiveness of your workout.

You can use heart monitor watches for several different sports, and many come with timers and calorie counters, a nice benefit for those trying to lose weight. You don't need to get anything fancy. I recommend a basic model that doesn't require a chest band. They cost less and are easier to use. men's heart rate monitor watch | women's heart rate monitor watch

If you want to learn Zumba at home, there are several step-by-step Zumba instruction DVDs out there. Some are sold individually and some are made to play with the WII. Make sure what you're buying is the complete Zumba set with 6 workouts and the maraca toning sticks if this is what you want.

After doing some online research, I think Amazon has the best price (you get free shipping). The Zumba Fitness website charges $12.95 for shipping and handling.

If you have never seen a zumba class before, you can watch zumba online for free to get an idea of what the dance moves and routines are like. You'll notice that there are a wide variety of different movements to give you a complete whole-body workout in a short period of time.

If you enjoy the social atmosphere and energy that exercise classes offer, you can mix up your at-home zumba video routine with a zumba class environment and make some new friends. Find a class in your area on the Zumba website.