You've been thinking about it for a long time now, "I should try a Zumba class." Right? Well, you're not alone. I speak with people everyday who say they'd like to come but they're afraid or they don't know how to dance or they don't know what to expect. I hear the same comments and questions often, so I thought I'd address the most frequently asked and write it up for you because, trust me, Zumba can change your life. You just have to get to class!
What to Wear and Bring to Zumba Class to Ensure Your Safety and Comfort
Wondering what to wear to your Zumba class? Well, that certainly is an important question. Zumba dance is vigorous and you need to be able to move freely and to feel comfortable from beginning to end. Here's what you'll need to wear and to bring to your Zumba classes.
* You'll want to wear clothing that is comfortable - not too tight and not too loose. The best fabrics are those that "breathe" (like cotton) and can wick moisture away from your skin because, oh yeah, you will sweat! It's a good idea to consider bringing clothes to change into after your Zumba class if you have to head to the outdoors, especially in cooler weather.
* (Women), you might consider wearing a sports bra or at least a bra that is very supportive. Zumba can really get you hopping!
* Shoes - the best shoes have very little tread. As a matter of fact, your worn-out sneakers may be just right! It is important that your shoes have some flexibility (they bend when you flex your feet or stand on your toes). They should provide support and cushioning to your heels and the balls of your feet. As long as the tread isn't too thick, cross-trainers can be good because they're designed for quick, lateral movements, and many styles provide support to the sides of the foot. Dance sneakers also meet these same criteria. Running shoes are not a good idea because the tread tends to be very thick and they are designed for forward motion, not side to side, making it more likely that you will twist an ankle. Stocking or bare feet are also not recommended because you'll need some support and shock absorption.
* Water, water, water! Bring a bottle and feel free to take a swig whenever you feel the need. Also, you might work on getting hydrated a full day before your class!
* A towel - because, again, you will sweat!
* Your Party Mood! - Zumba's official slogan is "Ditch the workout! Join the party!" and that's because Zumba's main purpose is for you to have FUN! Let's face it: most of us hate to exercise. Why? Because it's boring! So bring your party mood, listen to the music, and get your groove on! And while you're remembering to breathe, don't forget to laugh and make some noise!
Will I Be Able to Do the Zumba Moves?
If you're worried that you won't be able to pick up the Zumba moves, well, no worries! Really! Here's why you don't even have to worry about it:
Moves and sequences are repeated so many times that if you don't get it the first time or the second time, you'll get it the third time or the fourth or the fifth!
There is more than one way to skin a cat or trim some fat! Every move can be done the "simple" way or the "advanced" way. So whatever your dance expertise, or lack of it, Zumba is something YOU can master!
Even if you don't ever really get the moves, you'll be moving and grooving and sweating and you'll get the same benefit as everyone else in the class! The benefit (and the fun) lies in your involvement, not your mastery of the moves.
Remember, Zumba is a party! Zumba classes are all about fun, not skill. So close your eyes (well, maybe not both of them), get into your zone, and do your thang!
And here's what I know for sure, from years of experience in dance classes: Everybody is just as worried as you are about "getting" the moves, which means... everybody will be watching the instructor and nobody will be watching you! Except your instructor, of course.
Hopefully this information will help to put you at ease, gather your courage, and venture on out to the Zumba party!
See you on the dance floor!
Robin Rouse
http://www.zumba-dance-for-fitness.com/
Robin is a Zumba instructor in the Baltimore area and is loving life and good health while helping others to do the same!
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