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Please note, this blog does not reflect the PointsPlus plan. I'm sticking with an earlier version of the plan because it has worked so beautifully for me over the years. Good luck with your journey, no matter what plan you follow!

July 12, 2011

Trying new things....like Zumba!

I did it.  I reached waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay outside of my comfort zone, and attended a Zumba class.  I didn't sign up, pay, and then not attend like I've done in the past.  I actually went and worked out!  6 hours later, I'm still sporting sweaty clothes.  Yep, it was that much work.  Yep, I haven't showered yet [eeeew!].  I was dripping with sweat by the time I left the building. 

I cannot tell you how I feel about Zumba because I haven't decided how I feel about it yet.  I'm going to give it at least two more tries before making such a decision.  Why?
  1. I'm not a dancer. 
  2. Not at all. 
  3. I have no rhythm.   
  4. This class takes place in a mirror lined aerobic / dance studio. 
  5. That means I got to watch myself in the mirrors for an entire hour while I dance around rather badly. 
  6. Every move I make looks like I'm a giant sasquatch ready to attack. 
  7. Or like I was trying to do basketball drills rather than Zumba. 
  8. Either way, it wasn't pretty.
  9. Do people really like this Zumba thing?
  10. Really?
The mirrors everywhere were....awful.  I had to get over it pretty quick in order to somewhat keep up with the group.  I'm kind of thankful for the mirrors, though.  I discovered I'm developing the leg muscles of a runner!  I didn't know that before today.  [See picture to your right.  Those are not my legs in the photo.  I have no idea who they belong to, actually.  I stole the image off "the interwebs".  However, my thighs are starting to take on some definition like the legs pictured.  Not nearly that much, of course.  It's nice to know the past two years of running my ass off has done some good, though.]  Anyway, I was mesmerized by my own legs.  Only this time it wasn't over their whiteness.

PS...my Fitbit tells me I burned 532 calories during my hour long Zumba class.  Not too shabby.

13 comments so far...click here to leave yours!:

Mel said...

I know all of the zumba classes are different, but I barely burned 100 cals the last time I took it!

Jessica said...

Zumba is one of my favorite group classes! I have been slacking off and haven't been in awhile, but your post has inspired me to go soon, very soon! I am glad you tried it. Just remember it takes about 4 classes before you start feeling like you aren't a complete dork! Try it again and don't give up!

Nurse Kat said...

I love Zumba! I used to be self conscious in zumba class and then after 3-4 classes, I just said the hell with it and decided to just have fun- because really, everyone looks silly in that class. There are very few moments in life when you will see a group of people shakin' it at 10am completely sober!When I go now, I make sure I'm wearing something I feel I look good in, I don't get in the first row, and I make a point not to watch the mirror too much- but instead watching the instructor. I also try to get into the music and forget that I'm working out. Which, is one of the reasons I like zumba, time flies faster than when I run!
I used to do zumba a lot, I had to cut back because it was causing me more injuries when I did that and ran during the same week. All the jumping was messing with my ankles and knees. So now, I do zumba occasionally, but its always fun! Give it another few tries! If anything its a good calorie burner!

Caron said...

I've only been to three Zumba classes so far which were a lot of fun even though I'm past the age of actually jumping. I was doing classes at a gym in a church and I'm glad there were no mirrors. There were, however, people of all ages and sizes and even one big guy.

Latina Barbi said...

I love Zumba!! I tried it once nd was hooked! MUAH

JJ said...

Ive been debating this for a few weeks--so you just gave me the courage to go ahead and take a class!

Heather said...

JJ, let us know what you think of your class once you try it!!!!

Louise said...

I tried Zumba for the first time last fall and loved it. However, I did notice that some of the women (mostly the ones my age (50) and those that were overweight) seemed to be very self conscious and didn't stay in the class for long. I loved it and have learned not to care what others think of my wobbly bits! However, it has me thinking about the viability of a class for over 40 - where it is more gentle and kind. Would love to know what someone else thinks of this idea. Thanks for sharing!

Lisa Marie said...

I can relate - I felt like a total spaz during my first class, all ungainly and whatnot! But the instructor was very enthusiastic and I was so beat I just knew I had gotten a good workout. I went back and my coordination improved. So give it a little longer - you may find you enjoy it! Plus, recent studies show dancing is connected to a much lower chance of Alzheimer's later in life... good for your mind,too!

lcoulter23 said...

I love zumba. Believe me, everyone is too busy trying to keep up and watching the instructor to notice how bad or good you are doing. I have no rhythm either and I am definitely not a dancer, but I love the class because it is FUN and makes me feel awesome!

chris said...

GO you!
i tried an elliptical for the first time last thurs. i know not a big deal. but it looked intimidating and scary....and all the skinny girls were moving on it so fast....he he. but, i DID it..and I gave myself a special sticker for trying a new thing! i am going to add zumba to my list of activities to try. thanks!

As the Abel's Turn said...

I love Zumba. I feel great after doing Zumba.

Simon Squad said...

I don't normally comment but since I just took up Zumba I laughed a bit at your reasons Why you were debating this class. Only...because I can relate to every one. :) I've probably taken maybe 5 zumba classes now. I'm not a dancer AT ALL. I still totally feel like a sasquatch and I don't see it getting better any time soon. But, it's a great work out and I don't clock watch like I do in others. I have hope that one day I look good in front of those mirrors. good luck!