Ditch the workout and join the party with Zumba!

Looking for a fun and exciting way to get fit and healthy? Zumba might be for you!

If you’re not already familiar, Zumba is a high-energy dance fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves to create a fun and effective workout.

Free Zumba for International Dance Day 

In the lead up to International Dance Day, we are running free Zumba classes at Collingwood Leisure Centre and Richmond Recreation Centre. No matter your level of fitness or age, ZUMBA is for everyone, where the only rule is to move like nobody’s watching.

Check out the free Zumba timetable.

Our Zumba Instructors 

We’re also excited to showcase some of our amazing Zumba instructors ahead of International Dance Day. 

We chatted to our instructors to see what they could share about their personal experiences with Zumba.

Bec fell in love with Zumba during one of the many Melbourne lockdowns.

“To be honest, I wasn't coping very well. My mental and physical health were suffering…I remembered how much fun I used to have years before, dancing and being silly in Zumba classes.” 

Wanting to feel that way again, Bec completed her Zumba qualifications and began teaching friends to dance from all over the world via her computer.

“Best decision I've ever made! I had a new, fun way to connect with people, my mental and physical health improved, as well as my memory and cognitive function.”

Claudia and Doria are also Zumba instructors at Yarra Leisure.

Claudia, a Zumba instructor of nearly eight years, has discovered the power of dance to, “connect people from different cultures, help them destress, have fun and get fit!

Doria, who teaches a mix of rhythms from Salsa, Flamenco and Disco, says that all abilities are welcome at Zumba.

“No dance experience is required, only big smiles and lots of fun!”

Finally, our instructor Ellie has an infectious enthusiasm for dance that few can resist.

“I love combining the Zumba Latin sounds with my favourite styles of funk, rock and pop, and I love seeing people enjoying the class with fun dance moves such as air guitar and grape vines!”

With her distinctive 70s rock chick hair-style, her celebrated air guitar moves and her welcoming smile, Ellie makes her Zumba classes a blast, with dance moves that are easy to follow.

Why should you try Zumba?

As mentioned by our instructors, not only is Zumba a great way to exercise and have fun, there are also numerous health benefits:

1. Improved Cardiovascular Health: Zumba involves continuous movement which helps to improve cardiovascular health. It can increase heart rate and blood flow, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
2. Stress Reduction: Dancing to the rhythm of music has been found to reduce stress levels, lowering cortisol levels in the body. This can lead to better mental health and an overall sense of well-being.
3. Improved Coordination: The varied movements and rhythms of Zumba can help to improve coordination and balance. This can help reduce the risk of falls and injuries, particularly among older adults.
4. Socialization: Zumba classes provide an opportunity to socialize and meet new people. Working out with others can also lead to increased motivation and accountability.

It's no wonder that it's become one of the most popular dance fitness programs in the world. So grab your dancing shoes, put on some music, and start moving your way to better health!