If you’re planning to get fit and healthy through the Zumba program, make sure you understand the principles and concepts. There are a lot of tips available, but you may use only those provided by the certified experts. You will discover that you get to lose more weight and have a more exciting time by staying prepared. Here are some guidelines.
Initial Preparation
Although there is no required attire or uniform in Zumba classes, you can stay comfortable and find it easier to move if you wear loose clothing that breathes. You get to sweat and cool off effectively. Some individuals also prefer wearing a sweatshirt or jacket to sweat more. Most commonly, gym or workout clothes are very common attires during sessions. Wear the right footwear. Aerobic dance shoes, cross trainers and dance sneakers that have a round pivot point are ideal. Try not to wear running shoes, since these have very deep treads that tend to grip the floor. You can risk having knee injury with these. Choose old sneakers with well-worn treads over running footwear.
Hydrate very well before the workout by drinking a glass of water or more. You may take sips and gulps as you go through the session too. Take on a playful attitude and envision yourself shedding off the pounds to get more intensity out of the workouts. Psyching up is a very good way to get started on Zumba.
Finding the Groove
Do not worry so much about getting the perfect moves every time, especially if it’s only your first few sessions. Go at your own pace and listen to your body. Let loose and have fun, instead of trying to appear like an expert. Listen to the music and rhythm. You may want to take a few moments to understand and get to the beat before moving. If you feel tired, slow down the pace and vice-versa. Zumba Gold is a good class for the true beginner and those suffering from physical disabilities. You may try this at first, later on, you can progress to Zumba Basic and Level 2.
Among most individuals, it takes about 2 to 3 sessions before you start feeling comfortable. You can practice consistently if you want to be more fluid over time. Try to squeeze in 2 to 3 workouts a week. You should be very graceful in a month’s time. To support your body, keep your knees bent and the abdominal muscles tight throughout the workout. Bent knees let you get looser in the hips, while the tight abdominal muscles take care of and stabilize the spine.
Burn More Calories
If you’re into Zumba to get fit and lean, you need to support the workout program with a sensible diet too. Eat more vegetables, since these are full of fiber which will help you get rid of extra calories. Eating large amounts also keep you lean and full, instead of binging on the wrong items. Add nuts to salads and yogurt. As for snacks, you may want to consume some dried fruit or chopped vegetables just before going to a Zumba workout. Drinking water and consuming healthy carbohydrates like oatmeal will keep you energized. Eat small frequent meals per day to enhance you metabolism and burn more fat.
The Proper Posture
It doesn’t matter if you aren’t much of a dancer. You can still follow the moves since there are a variety of tunes and rhythms available according to your personal preferences. You will find that you also get to adapt the groove over time. Always practice good posture. Bad habits in the movements are hard to break, so it is always better to take your time and practice.