Though the thought of an hour of high intensity cardio may seem somewhat daunting, when it’s accompanied by upbeat and empowering songs with Latin influences, the idea becomes slightly more enticing. Zumba combines intense cardiovascular exercise with light-hearted, entertaining dance choreography, a rising phenomenon taking both Sussex University and the world by storm. The Sussex Zumba Society prides itself on creating a positive and welcoming safe space for all members, in which classes simultaneously aim to boost both your cardiovascular fitness and self-confidence.
The routines practised within the weekly Zumba sessions require an immense amount of perseverance, as the hour-long classes target a variety of muscle groups, whilst also strengthening the heart and lungs. Attending the weekly classes has both great physical benefits and commendable mental benefits; improving participants self-confidence, encouraging individuals to make new friends, and providing the opportunity to have an hour of judgement free, stress-relieving fun.
Though much debate arises around whether Zumba can be classed as a sport, the senior members of the Zumba society aim to ensure that no participant leaves without breaking a sweat. According to ‘Healthline’, you are able to burn between 300-900 calories during one hour of mid-to-high-intensity Zumba – so whether it’s defined as a sport or not, attending the weekly sessions is a great way to achieve your fitness goals.
As one of the more affordable fitness classes available at The University of Sussex, with single sessions priced at £4 or £6 for two classes, Zumba is an excellent exercise program that is both intense and enjoyable. The sessions are led by an externally hired Fitness Marshall who balances a professional environment whilst encompassing the sessions with laughter and fun. If running or athletics are not your thing, the Zumba society would be an excellent alternative form of exercise.
Despite their constant positive approach, the society has faced many setbacks and obstacles in the past few years. Issues such as the inability to sell tickets and the constant struggle to find unoccupied classrooms to book each week are just a few examples of the issues that the society have tackled in a professional and inspiring manner. The senior members of the society display honourable dedication and passion for the fitness program through the way in which they handle these issues, continuing to provide two training sessions each week for the enjoyment of their members.
Tackling the stereotypes and assumptions that surround Zumba as a form of exercise, the Zumba Society aims to move away from the generalisation that Zumba is a fitness program reserved ‘just for women over 40’. President, Ella Georgina, commented “The society welcomes participation from all members of the Sussex community; all genders and fitness levels, whether you have previously participated in Zumba or not”. Though the attendance of recent sessions has been predominantly female, the society aims to break these rigid assumptions, Ella stating that “we facilitate everyone! All we ask is that they have a passion for Zumba”.
The senior students of this society truly embody everything that Zumba stands for, and they are a part of the reason that the weekly sessions are so enjoyable. One first year member stated “they are the reason that I love to come to these sessions each week”.
‘Loud and proud about Zumba’, President Ella urges everyone to “Come to Zumba! You might surprise yourself and have a lot of fun”.
