The Zumba Gold dance workout targets baby boomers and beyond, as well as exercise beginners and others needing modification to their workouts. Zumba Gold builds cardiovascular health by challenging the heart and working the muscles of the hips, legs and arms with dance moves.

ZUMBA GOLD GIVES SENIORS, BEGINNERS A WORKOUT
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Chances are you have heard about Zumba — the fitness dance program that has become increasingly popular across the world!

It is estimated that 6 million people are taking Zumba classes each week in one of the 50,000 locations in 75 countries. What you may not know is that Zumba isn’t just for the young and fit. It is a great way for older adults to get in shape, too.

On Monday, we had our second class of Zumba Gold® at 10 a.m. in the Bobby James Gym. The class is taught by Abril Rocio Armendariz, a Zumba Gold licensed instructor, and is $1 per class. We had more than 20 people who participated in each class.

The initial concept of Zumba combined a dance workout with a party-like atmosphere. Zumba Gold takes the extremely popular Latin-dance inspired workout of Zumba and makes it accessible for seniors, beginners or others needing modifications in their exercise regimen. Gold builds cardiovascular health by challenging the heart and working the muscles of the hips, legs and arms with dance moves.

According to www.zumba.com, Zumba Gold targets the largest growing segment of the population: baby boomers and beyond. It takes the Zumba formula and modifies the moves and pacing to suit the needs of the active older participant, as well as those just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle. What stays the same are all the elements the Zumba Fitness-Party is known for: the zesty Latin music, like salsa, merengue, cumbia and reggaeton; the exhilarating, easy-to-follow moves; and the invigorating, party-like atmosphere.

For active older adults who want camaraderie, excitement and fitness as a regular part of their weekly schedule, Zumba Gold is the perfect fit. It’s a dance-fitness class that feels friendly, and most of all, fun.

Non-supportive moves and chair-based options are available to Zumba-goers in this particular class. Zumba Gold stays true to the original approach in that it does not rely on typical aerobic-style 32 count beats for movement and, instead, is inspired by authentic music. This class already takes into consideration some of the areas that may be of concern. For example, crossing your legs when dancing can be dangerous for older adults because it may lead to a fall. So, the dance moves in a modified version would not incorporate crossing the legs. Also, there is less hopping around or vigorous twisting and turning. It’s a little bit easier for older adults to take part in these modified versions safely, but there is still a fun atmosphere in the class.

Studies show that those who participated in a dance exercise program experienced improved cognitive function (from learning new steps and moves), motor control and performance, range of motion, bone density and increased caloric expenditure. Additionally, psychological benefits such as enhanced self esteem, general feeling of well being, better quality of life, reduced depression, opportunities for social interaction and increased opportunities to dance, party and have fun have all been benefits of Zumba.

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