Zumba Dance Exercise Boosts Fitness & Quality of Senior Lifestyle Sports Fitness Health

Zumba Dance Exercise Boosts Fitness & Quality of Senior Lifestyle

August 12, 2010, 5:43 pm

Zumba has taken the world by storm, giving a whole new meaning to aerobic exercise. No expensive equipment is needed or pricey outfit (lightweight shoes that won’t slip off are recommended). No partner is required. The program can be carried out in the privacy of one’s home. Classes are usually held at a dance studio, fitness center, or gym. Almost anyone of any age can learn basic Zumba moves and steps – even seniors.

Seniors don’t have to worry about trying to keep pace with the original program that may be too intense for some. Zumba exercise routines can be modified – adapted for the user. In fact, there is a special Zumba program just for beginners and elderly participants, called “Zumba Gold.”

What is Zumba Fitness?

The term “Zumba” means to move swiftly with grace. Zumba is a program of Latin dance moves which incorporates interval and resistance exercise. The moves are performed to zesty Latin rhythm, and other lively international music. The party experience is contagious and nothing short of exhilarating.

Zumba dance moves are fun, easy to follow, and the routines keep the entire body moving. Zumba fitness exercise is a revolutionary new and exciting program that doesn’t feel like exercise at all. Zumba for seniors has the same party flair as the original program.

The website Zumba Fitness features a YouTube video of seniors dancing a modified versions of Zumba. A participant doesn’t have to do every step, but is encouraged to do what’s comfortable and safe. Persons using wheelchairs and those with mobility problems can adapt many of the upper-body dance moves.

What Can an Elderly Person Gain from Zumba Dance Exercise?

Elderly persons can improve cardiovascular circulation, breathing and stamina with Zumba. Therapists and caregivers can work out right along with patients. As more oxygenated blood is circulated to the brain, cognitive thinking might even improve in some individuals. Learning something new and exciting is a great way to stimulate the mind, and may even slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss associated with dementia.

Older persons become more alert just listening to the music. Even nursing homes are trying Zumba to get patients moving for fun and exercise. A Zumba workout may also reduce the amount of pain some elders have from arthritis and/or depression.

Read on

What’s New in Zumba
Four Ways to Spice Up Your Fitness Routine
Zumba Gold – Dance Your Way to Vibrant Health

Where Did Zumba Originate?

Columbian fitness trainer and instructor, Beto Perez, forgot his regular aerobics music for class one day, so he took his favorite Latin music from his bag and improvised. He made up the steps and moves. The result became a popular new way to exercise. Zumba fitness knows no continental boundaries; since the program began in 1999, the routines have spread like wildfire all over the world.

April Redzic adds more information from the Livestrong website in her article titled, “Description of Zumba Dancing” (2010): “In 2003, Zumba partnered with Kellogg to launch a fitness campaign, and in 2005, it aligned with the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, The American Council on Exercise and other major national fitness regulatory organizations.”

How Can Seniors Get Started with a Zumba Workout?

Seniors interested in the Zumba Gold program can check the local Community Center, Adult Community School Program, or Fitness Club. A local rehabilitation center or physician’s office might also have information on Zumba Gold classes for seniors. Classes are fun and supportive, plus it’s a great way to meet new people.

Zumba classes for beginners are springing up all over the country, but many fitness centers have a waiting list. If there is no Zumba class location nearby, then follow the routine on television or plug in a DVD at home. Other Zumba Fitness Sources:

Individuals can follow basic moves from watching Zumba workout programs on TV.
Zumba fitness DVDs are available online and in popular stores.
MP3 music for Zumba workouts can be purchased on the Amazon website. Download the music for hours of fun.

Zumba exercise programs are an effective way to work off calories and stimulate all parts of the body. Aerobic fitness for seniors is important for cardiovascular health and mental stimulation. Zumba improves self-esteem and boosts self-confidence for many people, including elderly persons.

Trained Zumba instructors may also specialize in Zumba fitness programs for seniors or clients with disabilities. Join the world-wide party; sign up for a fitness exercise program and start feeling better. Zumba is the fun way to do dance exercise, and there’s no better time than now to start.

Seniors and caregivers please note: There is no age limit for Zumba participants, but persons of advanced age and those with risky medical conditions should consult with their doctor before starting a Zumba fitness exercise program or any other workout routine.

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