With summer being just around the corner, I've decided to explore different and interesting ways to get in bikini-ready shape. This is how I discovered Zumba. I accidently came across a free class at my local park and initially thought it was some kind of party. I soon came to realize that it was an exercise class that only felt like a party. I stood there and watched and let me tell you, it looked like A LOT of fun. I soon signed up for the class.

Zumba was founded by Miami-based dancer and choreographer Alberto 'Beto' Perez and combines Latin rhythms with cardiovascular exercise to create an aerobic routine that looked like SO MUCH fun! In fact, the word ZUMBA is derived from a Colombian word meaning to move fast and have fun.

Zumba fuses hypnotic latin rhythms and easy to follow moves to create a dynamic workout system that will blow you away.
Our goal is simple: We want you to want to work out, to love working out, to get hooked. Zumba Fanatics achieve long term benefits while experiencing an absolute blast in one exhilarating hour of caloric-burning, heart-racing, muscle-pumping, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage and captivate for life!

Today was my first class and I had a ball! It was hard, I was sweaty, and there were many times I wanted to just walk out of the room...but the music was loud, the moves were fun and my sister (Erika's mom) was with me. I didn't want to let her (or myself) down.

After the class, as my sister and I were walking to my car, I was deep in thought and realized that I learned a few things about myself:

1. I can't dance.

2. I jiggle a bit too much.

The goal is to learn these dance moves so that I don't feel as if I have two left feet, make my Latin roots proud...and jiggle a little bit less.  :)

I can't wait for next week! Two Zumba classes! I swear, the only thing that would make this class better is a Martini bar in the corner! What about you? Have you heard of Zumba? Could this be something that you would consider trying? And finally, what type of exercise program works for you?