Cacalda, Shayne Aldrae F.
Aerobics vs. Zumba
The terms aerobics and zumba are two of the most commonly interchangeable words
since they seem to be similar. But in fact, they are two different things.
Aerobic dance began in the early 1970s with the start of the disco era. Instructor like
Jackie Sorensen would dance to well-liked tunes while leading groups of individuals for
exercise. She later expanded aerobic dance program to YMCA in the United States. It can
include traditional dance movements such as back steps or even line movements. However,
dance aerobics can offer some non-traditional movements such as belly dancing scarf dancing or
hip-hop dance. When we exercise aerobically, our bodies use glycogen and fat as fuel. This low
to moderate level of exertion can be sustained over long periods. As you breathe more heavily
with exertion, carbon dioxide is expelled from your body. Aerobic exercise burns fat, improves
mood, strengthens the heart and lungs and reduces your risk of diabetes.
On the other side, zumba began in the 1990s when Beto Perez, a Colombian dancer and
fitness teacher, forgot his aerobic exercise music tapes. He had to improvise with his dance
music for fitness class or training. It consists of many choreographed Latin dance aerobic
routines within a class. The class is geared for a fun and high energy workout while dancing to
music. Combining fast and slow dance moves with elements of resistance training, it becomes a
full-body workout that encourages social interaction, communal support of common goals, and
enjoyment in the act of exercising. The good things about Zumba are: it is fast and accessible,
steps are customizable, full body work-out, increases coordination, boosts confidence, promotes
endurance, and burns calories.
Even though there are differences between aerobics and zumba, what’s important is that
it helps an individual to be active not only physically, but also socially and emotionally. These
two types of fitness activities are perfect if you want to achieve healthy body and mind while
having fun.
