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By Robin McMacken,
Staff Writer
8:43 PM Monday, November 7, 2011
Editor’s note: Today, we continue our weekly series intended to arm you with the tools and information you need to start on the path toward better health and fitness in 2012. Find special health and fitness coverage every week in Life.
Zumba and other dance workouts are shimmying to the top of fitness trends projected for 2012, according to a new American College of Sports Medicine survey. The Latin-inspired Zumba made its debut in the top 10 this year.
Zumba classes are found throughout the Miami Valley in churches, hospitals, colleges, recreation centers and such fitness chains as LA Fitness, Cuves, Urban Active and Premier Ladies Fitness. (To find out where area classes are offered, log onto www.zumba.com/parties/search.)
The craze is no surprise to Joan Jones, who owns and operates the Studio Fitness in Vandalia with husband Doug. The pair have been instrumental in Zumba’s growth and have trained more than 5,000 Zumba instructors.
She says the brand’s tagline–ditch the workout, join the party–says it all.
“Dance fitness is gaining in popularity because it is fun, burns calories while having fun, it doesn’t require any special equipment, and anyone can do it,” she explained. “Especially with Zumba, the Latin American music is uplifting and tends to keep the students in a happy mood while working out.”
Other Zumba formats include Zumba Gold for beginners and older adults, ZumbAtomic for kids and Aqua Zumba (think water aerobics).
Added Doug Jones: “The health benefits are endless. People do not get bored with Zumba, so they adhere to it and are reaping countless benefits.”
He said Zumba students have reported weight loss, improved self-esteem, lower blood pressure and heart rate, and better health overall.
The top 10 fitness trends predicted by ACSM for 2012 are:
1. Educated and experienced fitness professionals. According to ACSM, it’s important consumers choose professionals certified through programs accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
2. Strength training. Incorporating strength training is an essential part of a complete physical activity program for all physical activity levels and genders.
3. Fitness programs for older adults. As the baby boomers approach retirement, they are eager to stay healthy and active. More classes are being designed to meet their needs. “Zumba Gold reaches people of any age looking for a beginner level class that is not too overwhelming for someone who has never tried Zumba or may be new to exercise,” said Jones.
4. Exercise and weight loss. ACSM predicts health and fitness professionals who provide weight-loss programs will increasingly incorporate regular exercise and caloric restriction for better weight control in their clients.
5. Exercise and children. With childhood obesity growing at an alarming rate, ACSM sees the epidemic as an opportunity for fitness professionals to create programs tailored to overweight and obese children.
6. Personal training. Education, training and proper credentials for personal trainers will become increasingly important to the health and fitness facilities that employ them.
7. Core training. Distinct from strength training, core training specifically emphasizes conditioning of the middle-body muscles, including the pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen – all of which provide needed support for the spine.
8. Group personal training. In challenging economic times, many trainers are offering group training options.
9. Zumba and other dance workouts.
10. Functional fitness. This trend is toward using strength training to improve balance and ease of daily living.