The Show’s Called Goddess, It Ain’t Called Classes
I'm considering taking some classes at my local 24 Hour Fitness (or one of them, anyway). I'm not really a 'joiner', per se, and I'm loathe to even consider myself trotting around a glass room in clingy pants, but I need some variety.
I've always been interested in taking a dance-type class, but all the hip-hop ones seemed a bit intimidating. I'm not all that interested in learning "the hottest floor-slammin' moves of the club!"... I'm just not the "drop it like it's hot" type. But some of the others look promising... classes like Salsa Moves and Hustle™. But the latest ones that interest me are Hot Hula™ and Zumba®.
This workout combines high energy and motivating music with synchronized dance movements designed for any fitness level. The routines feature aerobic fitness interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body. Want to burn some calories and have fun? Then Zumba is for you!
I watched what I'm pretty sure was the Zumba class from atop the elliptical the other night and I think I can handle it. There was a nice variety of people in attendance, all shapes and sizes from Hottie Hiphuggers in the front row to Bodacious Bootie in the back. It looks like I'd fit in and hey, I can always stand by the door. *slips out*
But Hot Hula really has me intrigued. Here's the description:
This dance based cardio workout targets the abdominals and core and tones your arms giving them that great definition your looking for. Keeping your knees bent throughout the class will also definitely work your lower body. Done to the traditional sounds of Polynesian drum beats, this class will get your hips moving and shaking!
Sounds fun, right? I've been wanting to loosen up my hips and overall, get more comfortable with myself... see what my body can do. I've also heard Hula is great for the waistline, so I'm going to give it a go, I think.
Have you tried any of these classes? What do you think?
p.s. if you know from what movie the title comes, you win my props. *hat tip*
They Said Stuff!
Joelle, I’m so glad the donut is back! I know it’s probably a shit-ton of work for you that maybe you’re not always excited to do, but maybe it’ll help all us lately-re-fatasses lose some weight (again). I ran (um, not sure that’s the correct verb, actually…I’m SOOOO slow) a half-marathon at the end of April, and that’s after I couldn’t run a 5k without walking some during the 3rd mile 5 months before on NYE. The capacity of the human body to improve BLOWS MY FREAKING MIND. Of course, I was always hungry from running and felt like it was a free pass to go ahead and eat and the whole ordeal was weight neutral (doh!). If everything goes as planned, I’m going to do the Detroit Free Press marathon in October, I’m hopeful I’ll actually lose some weight along the way…I’m glad to have the donut back to help along the way :)
Love, a longtime lurker
Hi Shelly! That’s amazing that you did a half-marathon. I don’t know that I could run a 5k right now. I could walk the crap out of it, but running…. ? It’s a goal, let’s just put it that way. haha!
Thank you so much for your support on the Donut. I am really excited ot have it back online—I’ve wanted to for years, but could barely find a moment. I decided to TAKE a moment. :)
Good luck on your training for the marathon. You can do it!
I’ve heard great things about Zumba, and my close friend loves it. He enjoys it so much he’s eventually going to start teaching it once he can get certified. I tried it and had a tough time because of my knees, but…at the same time, I had fun. :)
A couple months ago a friend started teaching Step classes again and I couldn’t help but try it out. I used to think Step was…well, dorky, stuck in the 80s, but omg, I have so much fun! I wear my heart rate monitor during the class and my hr is up just as much as if I was in medium level Spin class, which is pretty damn good. Oh, and after a month of the class, once a week…my legs and butt sure showed some good changes.
Just throwing it out there :) I never used to be a class person until the last few years when I realized I needed that extra push. I can only do so much on the elliptical before I get bored and it just took finding the right classes to keep me coming back. Good luck with whatever you decide to try!
eeee—Hot Hula sounds like it would be blast! I can’t find any classes for it close by (of course). BUT! I am considering checking out a local Zumba class (I’m so shocked they’re offering it). I’d considered the dvds, but I think that a class would be better for me, as I need to get my ass out of the house on occasion. Zuuuuumba.
I’m going to Zumba tonight! A little nervous about the flopping about parts, but I’m really hoping I find something fun that makes me *want* to work out, not just *have* to.
Alicia, you’re right ... step class always makes me think of women in leg warmers and leotards up their ass. Maybe I’ll check out a beginner’s class… or watch one from atop the elliptical. haha!
Dude, Hot Hula. I’m kinda excited. I missed it this week, but I might go this weekend, if I can find somewhere that offers it. Let me know how you like Zumba! Maybe we’ll all be Zumba fools.
I may have to do a Zumba class now. They have one at my gym on Monday nights… *air humps*
I have to wait til Tuesday to Zumba. But, I’m totally going to put on some Shakira and do my laundry.
ok, so you have possibly sold me on trying a Zumba class! I just started doing Les Mills Body Pump (LOVE) and I am only 2 weeks in (2x a week) and can feel a difference in my body.
I was TERRIFIED of doing a class. But something that I quickly learned was that each of those people are there for themselves, they are not making fun of the fat girl. As a matter of fact, the Team mentality in the Pump classes that I go to is AWESOME. Each is there for their own purpose, but when a few people noticed me struggling with the lunges, they all came to me after class telling me to just take it easy, do every other one, etc.
I was amazed. And it made me go back. In a month I will be going three times a week, and getting in on an RPM class. Go me.
:)
Oh, and SO glad to see you two back at this!
Joelle, your recent post on your personal blog made me kick it back into gear. Thanks for that…
Thanks for the mention :]
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During the pre-order, you can get the DVD set for $29.99 (USA address) and $39.99 (non-USA address) with shipping and tax included.
The DVD Set ordered during the pre-order will be shipped April 30, 2011.
Go to www.anna-rita.com for more details!
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