Zumba is a cardio fitness program that follows the beats of fast-paced Latin music and uses many movements copied from salsa, samba and merengue dances. Created in the 1990s, the classes are taught in groups, in private or at home on DVD.
Typical costs:
Group Zumba classes[1] cost $5-$20, per class, depending on location and level of instructor. Community centers and fitness clubs offer many of the lower rates. Group sessions often include participants of all skill levels. Another option is taking one of four targeted courses. For the over-40 crowd, Zumba Gold classes are more tailored to the older active person and those of any age who are out of shape. Zumba Toning classes use 1 lb.-2.5 lb. weights during the sessions for increased workouts. Aqua Zumba takes place in the pool for a wet aerobic workout. Zumba Circuit combines the dance moves and music with circuit and strength building exercises for a 30-minute workout.
Zumbatomic is designed for kids 4-12 years old and costs about $12-$15 per class, depending on location. Latin Routines are designed to be easy to learn and fun for children.
Private Zumba lessons cost about $85 per hour, depending on location and level of instructor. This one-on-one time with the instructor allows the beginner to better understand the individual steps and offers the more experienced participant time to work on more advanced moves. A private Zumba or Zumbatomic event for 10-20 people costs about $10-$15 per person, depending on location.
Zumba exercise DVDs and video games[2] cost about $25-$90, depending on vendor and whether or not the package is a multi-DVD set. Some packages include toning weights with purchase. These at-home products offer a private learning set up for the beginner and a practice time between classes for more advanced Zumba participants.
The class will include the instruction, music and a space large enough to accommodate the large arm movements without hitting the next person. Allow time to warm up prior to class. Learning a few simple dance steps like the salsa and merengue[3] prior to class helps the beginner catch on faster. The instructor will build on these steps.
Additional costs:
Wear comfortable loose-fitting items that can soak up the sweat. Many participants choose bright work-out clothing mimicking Latin dance costumes. Shoes[4] with flexible soles that allow movement in all directions typically cost $65-$95, depending on store and style.
Zumba toning sticks[5] are small handheld weights that cost about $15-$25, depending on weight and brand.
Discounts:
Watch for introductory rates or buy multiple lessons at once for reduced daily rates of $1-$5 per class, depending on location.
Zumba classes may be offered at no additional charge through gym membership. Also, check local community centers for possible free classes.
Shopping for zumba lessons:
Zumba Fitness maintains a list of classes by location[6] .
Check with local gyms and fitness centers for ongoing classes.
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