Don't knock Zumba!

So!  Can I just start off by saying that Tuesdays are one of my favorite days?  (I realize that I'm a day late, but I just now caught a spare moment after yesterday's class).  After I get the Bird to school, I usually squeeze in an errand then it's off to Zumba.  Now this is going to be a little off track, but I just need to take a minute an express to you how much I love Zumba.  A couple weeks ago I went about my usual routine: school, TJ's then home to put away the cold stuff with just enough time to get to Zumba.  I got back into my car and the battery appeared to be dead. I was SO bummed-not because of my car, but because I was going to miss Zumba.  I looked at the clock in my car.  I had 9 minutes until go time and the thought "I wonder if I could run there in time" went through my head, then I remembered I had a two year old.  Psycho.  I know.  People, that's what Zumba has done to me!  I then finish my day with boxing-and I equally enjoy that class, but for different reasons and therefore a different post.

If you're an East County member, check out Tina's classes-she typically holds on to a playlist for roughly a month and it is the same regardless of which time you take her class. This way, if you totally stink, you have 3 chances per week to learn the same moves, haha.  No one cares if you can't dance; if you give it an honest effort, you'd be surprised how quickly you pick it up.  Every once in a while, you'll notice people staring into the class through the window-that's because it's CLEAR that something fun is going on in there and all the cool people are doing it.  I used to be embarrassed/insecure about what said viewer might say if they saw me dance (those of you who know my history are clearly laughing by now), but I now just continue and think "you only wish you were brave enough to try it.  Get your buns in here and quit staring through the window."

My average burn (this will not necessarily be yours) is around 380 calories and it's just. plain. fun.  It's great for the days where you don't feel like being pushed to exhaustion, but still want a workout.  Now I may not reach the same exhaustion that I do when I run, but if you keep your core tight and follow the instructor's lead of intensity, you WILL get a GOOD workout.

Finally, the girls in there are all awesome-all ages and fitness abilities are welcome.  You all will be happy to know that my car had some freak connection error and after a couple minutes it started right up and everyone Zumbaed happily ever after.  See photo below for details.

Here's to my Zumba ladies: you guys ROCK.