When I first began working at a CCRC a year ago I learned that Zumba® classes were being taught. I was very intrigued and actually sat in on the class within the first couple days of being here. Prior to attending the class, I kept thinking to myself that this was a pretty intense class to be taught to seniors. After attending the class I was pleasantly surprised as to how enjoyable the class is for the participants. The type of class that was being taught is actually called Zumba Gold® and was specifically designed for active seniors as well as those participants who may not be ready for full on Zumba®. Zumba Gold® still uses the same concept of original Zumba® by incorporating exciting Latin and international dance rhythms. Some of these dances include Merengue, Salsa, Cha Cha, Cumbia, and Belly Dancing. You are guaranteed to get a full body workout but the exercises are modified for success and safety. A lot of the moves may even be done at 1/2 tempo so that everyone is able to follow. The most interesting thing that I observed was that many of the participants were seated during the Zumba Gold® class. This makes the class available to everyone, including those who may be in wheelchairs or are unable to stand for long periods of time.
There are a wide range of benefits of Zumba®, these include:
- Improved muscular strength and endurance
- Improved cardiovascular system
- Improved range of motion
- Improved posture
- Reduces depression, stress and anxiety
- Opportunity to meet new people
- Enhanced quality of life
The residents at our community absolutely love that this class is offered! It is one of our most well attended classes at our community. This population has grown up around music so what better way to get some exercise while dancing around to good music! I hear over and over again from the residents that it doesn’t even feel like they are exercising because they enjoy the music so well and they just start grooving.
If you are interested in having Zumba Gold® at your CCRC you will first need to have a licensed Zumba Gold® instructor to teach the classes. There are always training workshops being taught all over the United States you just have to find the one nearest to you. You may find these training workshops at the following address Zumba Training. Now the question is are you ready to live up to the Zumba® motto and ditch the workout and join the party?
