Zumba – 30 of 30 complete!

I’ve never tried Zumba before, to be honest, I was just too intimidated.  A friend and former colleague Lidia saw my posts on Facebook and invited me to her class at LA Fitness downtown.  I figured if I was going to embarrass myself, I might as well do it in front of her. 
 
Lidia’s passion is dance and she used to do it competitively, dedicating nearly all of her free time to it.  She’s recently given up the art and now takes to the dance floor three times a week at various LA Fitness locations close to her Chicago home.
 
I arrived at LA Fitness on Sunday morning, post a St. Patty’s day hangover and joined Lidia and her regulars in the studio.  The music started and off she went as I tried to keep up as she Merengue’d, Salsa’d, and Bachata’d her way cross the dance floor.  She was amazing and as I side glanced in the mirror, I knew I looked like a flailing fish but I was kind of keeping up and totally having fun. The music was rhythmic and the infused hip-hop dance moves were fun – some more challenging than others.
 
Edan Gelt at LA Fitness

I think I took the most enjoyment out of watching Lidia smile and exude enthusiasm – something I’ve never seen her do before.  Her big smile, energy and flair engaged us all.  I can see why her followers keep coming back.  
 
All in all, I had a great cardio workout, was sweating like crazy and burned about 400 calories.  I get why Zumba has it’s following but I also realize how important a good teacher is to class experience.
A big thanks to Lidia for the recommendation, I am and overly excited to make this the last work out in my 30 for 30 challenge!!!
 
Visit Lidia at LA Fitness Streeterville on Sunday mornings, or at the South Loop location on Wednesday or Thursday evenings.
 
By:  Edan Joy Gelt

Location: Chicago, IL, USA

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