Those who know me can attest to the fact that I have no rhythm. No matter what I think, or how hard I try, I cannot just move with the music and look good doing it. Yes, I can do structured choreography, such as that found in step or traditional cardio classes, but I have come to the conclusion that dance-related fitness classes are not my strong suit.
Case in point: I went (for the 4th time) to a Zumba class offered at the gym at my work. Contrary to the evening classes that I had previously tried, the lunch hour class was much smaller and appeared less intense. In fact, looking around me, I was the youngest and definitely (from my judgment) in the best physical shape. I was feeling much more positive about this Zumba experience. That was until the instructor came bounding into the studio and plugged in her iPod to ignite a pulse throughout the room with her latin-based techno music. And then she went straight into the movements - no warm-up, no breakdown of the routine. Rather, she started rolling her hips, twisting, and moving every which way (which for me translated to an RPE of 9!) and the movements only intensified with the beat of the music over the next 35 minutes. She kept encouraging us (okay, probably just me as everyone else seemed like professionals. So much for my initial judgment of their physical capabilities), with "just feel the music" or "imitate my movements." Umm that really didn't do anything for me. Where were the counts? Where was the step-by-step instruction? My imitations of the movements were not nearly as fluid and effortless as hers, or the other participants. Maybe I had accidentally joined the advanced class! And to make matters worse, I couldn't hide or escape early. The studio is surrounded by mirrors on three sides and a wall of windows to the corridor on the fourth. This was embarrassing. Talk about a failed fit!
But, in hindsight, I got a great workout! I left the 50 minute class feeling exhausted and drenched in sweat. The rest of the day, I could feel my obliques and hips (all that twisting and popping). Even though it was a failed fit for me (which is mainly due to my inability to dance, and my resistance to just let go and look like a fool), it was definitely worth the experience and made me realize a few new areas that might need more conditioning and toning.
In summary, I would recommend trying out a Zumba class because they are obviously popular for a reason. But, if it doesn't work for you - if it is a failed fit - then look for something else to try.
Love this post :)
ReplyDeleteI have been meaning to try, but I feel that it may be a failed fit for me to. But I heard even your mom does it at Curves! And everyone tells me that they are sore afterwards....might have to try it out!
Like I said, it is definitely worth trying once, but don't feel bad if it doesn't work. Zumba isn't for everyone...and definitely isn't for me, no matter how much I want it to be!
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