What Other Exercises to Do Besides Zumba?

Zumba enthusiasts love getting an intense cardio challenge while learning challenging dance moves. Dance aerobics classes can provide full-body workouts, but that doesn’t mean you should eliminate other forms of exercise altogether. The Mayo Clinic recommends including strength and balance training, core exercises, and stretching in your fitness routine, along with the cardiovascular exercise provided in classes like Zumba. If you like moving and grooving your way to a fitter physique, learn about what other exercises you can use to supplement your Zumba experience.

  1. Strength Training

    • Strength training exercises, like weight lifting, help increase lean muscle mass while you work to lose fat or maintain your current body weight. Lifting weights a minimum of twice a week also helps strengthen your bones and increase your energy levels. Gyms offer a variety of resistance machines for various areas of the body. Because Zumba classes often involve little upper-body resistance work, use your strength training to focus on developing your arms, chest and back. You can also reap the benefits of strength training using hand-held weights or resistance bands.

    Stretching

    • Even if your Zumba class includes some light stretching, your fitness routine could benefit from more flexibility training. Moderate stretching helps increase your range of motion and flexibility, reducing your risk of injury. A 2007 study from the Louisiana State University found that regular stretching also increases muscular endurance and strength. Do your body a favor and stretch at home or at the gym after you exercise, or try a flexibility-focused class like yoga.

    Core Training

    • Strengthening your core -- the muscles in your lower back, abdomen and pelvic floor -- help protect your spine from strain while improving balance and coordination. A stronger core may also mean a leaner stomach area and improved muscle tone in your abs and back. Strengthen your core with crunches, situps and planks. Do the exercises with a stability ball to challenge your balance. Pilates exercises performed on a mat or Pilates apparatus also help target your core muscles while stretching and strengthening the whole body.

    Other Aerobic Exercises

    • Using Zumba as your only form of aerobic exercise may hinder you from seeing maximum results. According to Neil Pire from the American College of Sports Medicine, varying the types of aerobic exercise you perform helps challenge your body in new ways. Continue taking Zumba classes while adding other kinds of aerobic activity to your weekly routine, like brisk walking or swimming.