Wow, it's always inspiring to attend a Zumba workshop -- new choreography, lots of familiar faces, and networking with fellow instructors for work and community service ideas!
Yesterday, we did a specialty class in Zumba Toning. We got these great sticks that touched my heart as a drummer and Latin percussionist -- they made noise like maracas! Can you even imagine all the artistic possibilities? Woo hoo!
A few key things where I recognized how I could further make this super-fun cardio workout "my own" with some Pilates principles:
1. Jumps and squats: Protecting the knees!
Teaching proper alignment of knee-to-foot; and using all the muscles in the leg and hip to prevent over-straining the "quads" (in the front of the leg), and to prevent joint injury, especially in the knee.
2. Using the sticks: Protect the neck!
It's so easy to cause strain in the neck because our modern living already does it -- sitting at computers, in cars, and in comfy couches tends to create a "forward head" in virtually everyone, which already strains neck muscles and places excess pressure on the disks. Ideally, the head should balance over the shoulders with minimal tension in the neck. It's then very important now that we have a bit of weighted resistance, to use arm movements that create a sense of relaxation in the neck and shoulder.
3. A good hip release, and moving the spine!
Well, I teach every one of my clients a beautiful dynamic stretch that I used to bring myself from a state of extreme inflexibility, to getting close to full sideways splits, in a short time. And I also show how to get the spine moving and 'unlock' the areas which feel tight, and strengthen the areas which feel weak. While everyone's rate of improvement will differ, it's all in the alignment again. Well, after a full 8 hours of Zumba, I am not sore or stiff at all. And I look forward to sharing how to keep injury-free and enjoy the benefits of cardio, keep reaching those weight management goals, and have a fun and creative time with Zumba!
Zumba Zumba Zumba!
Aloha from Lahela!
www.lahelafit.com
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