Description of Zumba Dancing

Fitness fanatics and everyday exercisers have undoubtedly heard the word Zumba at some point. Zumba is the trademark name of a wildly popular form of aerobic exercise that is hailed as not only fun and energizing, but highly effective for burning calories.

  1. Zumba's Creator

    • The man behind the Zumba sensation is Cali, Columbia, native Alberto "Beto" Perez. A dancer/fitness instructor, Perez brought his Latin-inspired dance style to Miami where it eventually became a hugely popular form of exercise.

    Zumba Evolution

    • In mid-1990, Perez, an aerobics class instructor, forgot to bring his regular songs to class and improvised with his own Latin salsa and merengue music. The Latin music/aerobic combination became a hit in Colombia, and eventually became a huge phenomenon that has caught on not only in the United States, but throughout the world.

    What is Zumba?

    • Zumba involves dance moves set to a Latin rhythm in classes that last one hour and are typically taught in a party atmosphere with dimmed lights and loud music. Zumba instructors promote their classes as fun, energizing and easy to follow, regardless of fitness level.

    Where is Zumba?

    • Zumba fitness is found around the world, spanning six continents. Zumba classes can be found at many YMCA centers, recreation centers, schools, churches or other community centers.

    Beyond Zumba

    • Zumba has literally become an enormous fitness empire. Zumba offers classes to teach instructors (ZIN--Zumba Instructor Network), DVDs for home use, a clothing line and classes in most every community.