Try Something New
I hate the gym. Always have, and always will. For a while, I’ve been thinking about taking a dance class as an alternate cardio workout, but for whatever reason – latent fear, laziness – I haven’t pursued that instinct…until now.
Today I took a Zumba class at Peridance Capezio Center. (If you haven’t heard of Zumba, it’s a mix of Latin dance and aerobics… or, as the New York Times puts it, a “cardio-dance routine.”) I have no formal dance training, and I haven’t done an intense cardio workout….well, ever. So today’s class kicked my butt. But also: It was so much fun.
I looked ridiculous, trying to shake and wiggle and follow the instructor’s moves, but it was engaging, and the music was contagious, and…well, it sounds cheesy, but I was proud of myself for doing it. Proud for pushing myself so far outside my comfort zone.
I still feel spent, 7 hours later – it was intense, and it’s going to be a while before I can take a class that doesn’t knock me out for the rest of the day. But I did it. And sometimes, we just need to show ourselves what we’re capable of.
Here’s a zesty video showing you what Zumba’s all about…
There is no way in hell that I would ever do that, but I applaud you for trying it. It was more interesting to me when I thought it was a rumba with a roomba. ;-)
Thanks for posting this. My YMCA has a Zumba class, and I might have to sign up for next session. I can’t dance for crap, but it looks like fun.
Amanda,
I love it – such a cool activity to take up. Graphic design, Zumba, bring in the new!
Looks like a lot of fun–have been wondering what it is and whether I would like it. You go, girl!