Do you know the main reason many weight loss programs fail? They’re boring. Or, they’re way too hard and you cannot face the prospect of spending another hour at it. Zumba, on the other hand, is a lot of fun and can be an effective way to shed extra pounds. Here’s more about Zumba for weight loss.
What exactly is Zumba?
If you’ve ever tried aerobics, Zumba will seem familiar. Essentially, Zumba is an intense sort of aerobics that incorporates Latin dance movements and a bit of hip-hop. It feels like you’re on stage performing a spectacular dance routine that grows increasingly fast.
Some people liken Zumba to dancing. If that’s the case, it’s an intense sort of dancing, based on my experiences! The class can be so much fun that you won’t even notice the intense workout and the many calories burning per session.
How effective is Zumba for weight loss?
In terms of calories you lose, that depends on the intensity of the exercise. For a beginner, you’ll want to take it easy and give yourself a chance to get used to the rhythm.
A Zumba class is between 45 and 60 minutes and you can burn between 300 to an astonishing 900 calories per session. The figures refer to medium and very intense exercise sessions. How many calories you burn during any type of physical exercise, not just Zumba also depends on your current age and weight, as well as your level of fitness.
Let’s settle for a figure at the lower end, say 400 calories burnt per session. That’s the equivalent of a hamburger and a small serving of fries, only, being on a diet you shouldn’t eat fast food, of course.
Of course, every person is different. The amount of calories burned varies depending on body size, weight, movements, and more.
How many sessions per week?
Well, as many as you can. According to the American Council on Exercise when you’re on a weight loss program you should hit the gym at least three times a week.
For a weight loss program to be effective, you need to be realistic and work with attainable goals. Push yourself too much and you will give up sooner rather than later.
Three times a week is manageable for some people and it doesn’t take up much of your time. It’s doable. Once you get the hang of it and start to make friends with the others in your class you’ll probably want to go more often!
Zumba is a complete workout
When you get into the rhythm you probably won’t pay attention to what sort of exercise you’re actually doing. It’s not like a regular gym session when you go from one type of equipment to the other while thinking “Now I’m going to work the abs, next I’ll focus on the legs.” That’s can get boring after a while.
Once you get Zumba dancing you don’t bother yourself with the aim of each movement, but during a typical session, you’ll get a chance to exercise all the muscle groups. Zumba involves a lot of hip-swaying, which is great for getting rid of belly fat.
More perks of Zumba than only weight loss
A Zumba class won’t likely leave you exhausted but instead full of energy and in a great mood. You’ve spent an hour among friends, dancing the pounds away over time.
Plus, in a Zumba class, the trainer won’t tell you off for doing the exercise wrong. There is no right or wrong in Zumba. In Zumba, everything goes!
Always make sure that your doctor approves any new type of exercise before you begin. That way, you know if it’s right for you.
Have you tried Zumba? What do you like to do for exercise?
Zumba was a great aerobic workout for me some years past, Christy. It is fun and the music is fabulous!
Yes, I really was drawn to the music in my first class!
Wow, I didn’t know just how effective Zumba is Christy. I recently joined a gym to take classes and so far I’ve taken a few Yoga classes and have been eyeing Zumba wondering if it’s too intense. But your post has encouraged me to try out a class! <3
Oh the great thing about Zumba is you can do as much or as little as you like, Debby. Go deeper into the movements if you feel ready or go for lower-impact variations if you’d prefer. Each class I’ve been to has had a very supportive environment. That’s great you’re enjoying the gym :)
Thanks Christy. I’ll keep you posted. :)
Sending love
<3