On Feb. 18, the Zumba classes resumed for the spring semester. Announced on the Facebook page as “Harding Muevete,” the official name of the course, the classes started meeting daily, promising the all-girl participants the same fun workouts that have been taught at Harding for the last two years. The idea of having a course began with the certified Zumba teacher, junior Lauren Wilson, in the fall 2011. Former SA president, senior Bruce McMullen and former director of campus activities, Corey McEntyre supported Wilson’s idea and the course began.
“It was a successful idea because at that time, Zumba was becoming popular around the world so people already knew what it was,” McMullen said. “It was quite a hit, positive response. Because the participants are all girls, they feel comfortable and find it easy to encourage each other and keep it going. People often shy away from going to work out but if it is a team effort and a fun atmosphere, everybody feels involved. If I was a girl, I would definitely go to Zumba classes.”
Zumba is a fun way to work out because it involves music and high cardio movements. According to Wilson, during an average 50-60 minute session, a girl is able to burn between 450 and 550 calories. Zumba moves work especially on legs and abs, focusing on the oblique muscles, quads and calves.
“Zumba is also good for the brain,” Wilson said. “It is like doing a Sudoku every day. The constant memorization of new moves and choreography keep the brain working, along with your body. You work out without realizing it and because we use current songs people can relate to, it keeps them motivated.”
Classes are also a good way to meet new friends. Hailey Park, a senior from South Korea, met Wilson during the first Zumba session in Fall 2011. Now roommates, Park and Wilson agree on the benefits of Zumba.
“I am very excited about the beginning of the new classes,” Park said. “I can get rid of my stress, and while I get so bored on the treadmill or elliptical, I love to go to Zumba. I just hope the GAC organizers will add more classes and maybe move to another place. As much as the student body is increasing, the classes are getting bigger and we do not fit in the gymnastic room anymore.”
Zumba classes are open to female students and faculty. Right now classes are in the gymnastics room in the GAC on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6:30-7:30 a.m and on Tuesday and Thursday from 7:00-8.00 a.m and 6:45-7:45 p.m.
