If you want to get fit and get in touch with your inner dancer, Zumba might be for you.
Zumba is a company that offers a fast-paced workout based on dance moves. Classes are available online or through certified instructors.
"It's a fitness class known for burning a lot of calories," between 600 to 1,000 in a typical class, said Susanne Meyers, an instructor in Bayfield.
She and her cousin, Misty Morris, became certified to teach Zumba in Albuquerque and now teach three classes a week at Bayfield Gymnastics and Dance, which is in Aspen Plaza. A real benefit to the location are the squishy mats and springy floor, which make the moves easier on old joints and bones.
She likes the mix of exercise the classes offer, with high-cardio, low-cardio, toning and aerobic benefits in a full-body workout.
"I got into because it really takes the work out of working out," Meyers said. "It was the fastest hour of exercise I had ever done. I hate excercising!" In addition to the physical workout, she thinks the classes provide a mental boost, as well.
"The stimulation of the brain makes you think," she said. "It's good for your coordination."
Classes are Monday and Wednesday at 6 p.m. and Friday at 8 a.m. The cost is $5 per class, and punch passes are available. While some people are initially intimidated by the dance moves, Meyers recommends trying three session.
"You get the repetition, you get the good workout, and you get the benefits of the exercise," she said, adding that it's not a dance performance.Participants in a recent class said they like starting their day having some fun at the session.
"You get to dance like a fool!" said Sharon Wickstrom.
"It really starts your day off with a party," added Brenda Marshall. "You have old friends and new friends there. It's fantastic."
For more information, Meyers can be reached at 903-0521, or she said folks are welcome to just show up and check out a class.
