Zumba® Fitness revolutionized the way to use a step in a group fitness class with the launch of “Zumba® Step” in 2013. In keeping with the ever-evolving fitness industry, Zumba® enhanced the adrenaline-pumping fitness party with this gravity-defying blend of Zumba flavor, step aerobics and fitness movements. Zumba® Step targets lower body muscles, aids in balance and coordination, and encourages you to use more energy to lift your body weight against the force of gravity.
In 2002, Zumba® expert Gina Grant took her first Zumba® class in order to get her body back after having her third child. Grant was immediately hooked to the global fitness party and “values the exhilarating and effective workout that Zumba classes provide her…” Grant is now “step dancing” fitness enthusiasts into shape with four moves that are sure to tone and sculpt your body without making you feel like you’re working out. Follow the steps below, and be on your way to being the best “you” that you can be!
First up is the Bachata Turn Step, which targets obliques, quads, outer thighs, and calves.
Stand on the step with your legs spread, then bring your right foot diagonally behind you while your left foot remains on the step. Make sure to raise your right arm at the same time.
Return your right foot to a wide stance on the step and bring your left arm up.
Bring your left foot diagonally behind you, keeping your right foot on the step.
Alternate legs for four counts, and do 4 sets.
*Involve your hips to tone and tighten your side ADL.
Next is the Flamenco Combo, which targets core, glutes, quads, inner thighs, and arms.
Stand on the center of the step (placed lengthwise). Lunge your left foot diagonally off the step, and raise your right arm over your head.
Repeat Step 1 on the other side.
Bring your foot back to the center of the step.
In order to involve core muscles, lift your left knee to the outside of your waist, and you’re your right arm to shoulder height.
Lift your right knee to the outside of your waist. Alternate sides and repeat, and be sure to do 4 sets.
Third is the Salsa Combo, which targets glutes, quads, and hamstrings.
Step out to the left in a squat position from the top of the step while moving your arms side to side.
Step cut to the right in a squat position.
Return your feet together on the step. Do a front salsa move starting with your left foot.
Lunge back with your right foot off the step. Bring your arms to shoulder height and curl in. Repeat with your other leg, and do 4 sets.
Lastly, Grant shows us the Tango Lift, which targets abs, glutes, and quads.
Bring your left foot off the step.
Put your weight onto your right leg, kick your left leg back, and extend your right arm over your head.
Bring both feet up onto the step.
Step your right foot onto the floor, then sway your hips and arms from side to side 5 times. Repeat this on other side, and do 4 sets.
If you’re looking for a balance of traditional fitness, dance and step aerobics, these Zumba® Step moves are what you have been waiting for.
“With Zumba® Step, we’ve revolutionized an exercise classic that truly helped shape the fitness industry. With our own Zumba spin, we’ve made the program incredibly effective, especially on the lower-body, and easy-to-follow so you’ll see results while enjoying the workout — it’s truly fitness without sacrifice,” said Alberto Perlman, CEO and co-founder of Zumba®.
For more information about the Zumba® Step program or to find a live class near you, visit zumba.com.
For more information about Gina Grant, visit ginagrant.zumba.com.
I’d love to find a class near me! Looks and sounds like fun. I bet it’s a great workout!