"It’s about getting fit in a fun way.": Interview with Doris Ashcraft, Zumba Step instructor at Virgin Active
We have a quick chat with Doris to find out more about the benefits of new workout program Zumba Step.
Tell us what exactly Zumba Step is. How is it different from regular Zumba?
Zumba is a total-body workout where you dance to a blend of high-energy Latin and international beats. On the other hand, step aerobics involves executing a sequence of aerobic moves on the step, which is an elevated platform.
Zumba Step combines Zumba dance moves with step aerobics variations and fitness movements. It is a diverse mix of traditional fitness (30%), dance (40%) and step aerobic moves (30%). It’s about getting fit in a fun way.
Why do you think it’s becoming so popular?
Many attendees say it’s a fun class that also offers a great workout.
What about people who can’t dance—would this workout be suitable for them?
Yes, Zumba Step is all about working out together in a group setting, while having fun.
What fitness benefits can we derive from Zumba Step? Which parts of the body does it target?
It provides an intense lower-body workout by encouraging participants to use more energy to lift their body weight on the step. It also offers extreme body sculpting benefits—it tones lower-body muscles including the glutes, thighs and legs, while also aiding balance and coordination. You can expect to burn up to 1000 calories in an hour-long Zumba Step class.
How many classes of Zumba Step should we attend a week to see results?
It really depends on each individual’s fitness level, but I daresay that after two or three sessions, participants will feel more confident executing the moves. Once they become more acquainted with the routine and music, they tend to start pushing themselves to the next level. That’s when most people start seeing results.
Do you think the Zumba revolution is here to stay?
Zumba is already well-liked and has a strong following. Hence, Zumba Step, which takes Zumba to a whole new dimension, has gotten a good amount of interest. In fact, Zumba Step classes have been increased to three times a week at Virgin Active due to overwhelming demand.
Virgin Active now offers three Zumba Step classes a week, on Wednesdays (12.30pm), Thursdays (7.30pm) and Sundays (1.30pm).
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