Did you know they make butt tassels? As in tassels sewn to the back of a pair of pants? The instructor’s rear had flying strings; I’m not sure if they were supposed to mesmerize or instruct. Regardless, I bet they are uncomfortable on the ride home. Just one of the ways I ways enlightened in my first Zumba class…
I immediately met a wonderful trio of women who instantly made me feel comfortable. They all had wonderful attitudes and were ready to laugh. And laugh we did. The class was so full, that it was impossible to see the instructor, so it was like a game of telephone, the moves becoming more mutilated by the time they made it to the back of the room (where I, as a Zumba virgin, was of course hanging out). Regardless of the missed instructions, I was glad to see that my feet still remembered something from the dance classes I took 25 years ago.
I also learned just how limited my hip movement is; much of my booty shaking looked more like booty shifting. Luckily, one of my new acquaintances was able to give me some pointers on how to loosen the hips a bit. We negotiated a tradeoff; she’ll help me with my booty shaking, and I’ll help her get some definition in her back. A great tradeoff, if you ask me.
Overall, it was a fun experience. It felt like being in a big sleepover, dancing around in our pajamas. Except, of course, for the viewers from the adjacent weight room (there IS a lot of booty shaking). I plan on trying it again, especially when I need a mood booster at the end of the day. I don’t feel exhausted, and I feel better from the camaraderie and laughter. I am a Zumba virgin no more…
I love your comments about Zumba. I just started Zumba two weeks ago and I’m hooked. It’s fun and besides losing weight, improving my balance and flexibility and increasing my overall strength it’s brought my blood sugar back to near normal levels. The hardest part about Zumba for me was walking into the room. I’m a 59 year old heterosexual bald man. But once it get started everyone could have cared less. Now I can’t believe that guys haven’t caught on to this. At just about every session someone always makes a comment or asks the question why more guys are taking Zumba.
BTW, my 21 year old daughter is mortified that I’m taking Zumba. She away in college and takes Zumba at the Gold’s Gym near the University. She texted yesterday to tell me that there was guy as old as me in her class and she said he didn’t Zumba any better than I probably did. lol I just love embarassing my daughter.
Anyway, I’m still trying to master the booty shake and I don’t jump nearly as high as the young’uns but I’m not giving up. It’s too much fun.
I love it! Watch out, if enough of you guys speak up about the fun and fitness of Zumba, the classes will become much more crowded. That is awesome news about your blood sugar, too. Enjoy learning the booty shake (I’m still working on it myself) and embarrassing your daughter in the process:)