Aerobic dance has been with us for a few decades now, with many incarnations and spin offs. One of the most popular off shoot from the early idea of dancing to music, athletically, to get physically fit was the the development of the “step work out.” Many people appreciate this type of exercise because the “step” automatically makes it aerobic. But, let’s get back to the dance part: Yes, aerobic which means “with air.” The increased use of oxygen makes the cardiovascular and respiratory systems work harder, ultimately, strengthening the heart muscle and increasing the lungs capacity to exchange “bad air” for the “good air.”  Also, the workout will increase the metabolic rate, which in turn witll burn calories and aid in weight loss or maintenance, depending on your personal condition and needs.

I have been teaching aerobic dance and step workouts since the 1980′s at several college campuses, in a variety of  after school programs and in the private sector.  I am always learning new things about these workouts, trying, always, to make the workouts more effective and efficient for my students.  I am aware that not all people are as excited about physical movement and exertion as I am, but I am dedicated to the basic premise, if you don’t like the work, you won’t do it.

I am hoping to keep a log of my thoughts, as well as my mission, in this section of my web site. I will continue to write, sometimes philosophically, other times very specifically about exercise and the basic components of physical fitness: strength, endurance and flexibility. There are many ways to achieve these aspects of body conditioning, and finding the right “work out” for you is essential. Again, if you don’t like the work out, you’re not going to do it, so, then, what is the point?

July 11, 2011

Just back from a Zumba class! It is definite…. not all Zumba classes are alike. This was a good one. And it all depends on the teacher. The energy of the instructor must be on a high level, of course, but there is authentic energy, then there is the pumped up, condescending energy. Yes, and choreography does count. I sometimes am critical when exercise classes are overly choreographed, leaving the “student” floundering with steps and transitions, losing the benefit of the movements, themselves, Zumba relies on simple but ingenious and FUN moves. This class had it! And, I didn’t get her name. Oh, well, hopefully, she will be back next week.

Other thoughts about the exercise process: I was talking with an old friend yesterday, whom I hadn’t seen since last summer. She was working out at the club, and I asked her if she took classes. After musing a bit, she admitted she had in the past, but was in the “self exercise mode” at present. Much of it has to to with scheduling and TIME, but also, we need to realize our patterns of exercise will change over time. Monotony is one of our worst enemies. Also, the body enjoys change and will benefit from different exercise regimes. I am not suggesting that we are flighty and ever changing our routines, but it is good to listen to your body and thoughts, and not feel rigid about your work out commitments.