Capoeira
Think martial arts and acrobatics mixed in with drums and Brazilian music. The descendents of African slaves in Brazil created the dance art form as a way to train and protect themselves from their white slave masters. As you couldn’t openly teach people to fight, Capoeira became a disguise under the form of dance to teach people proactive and self-defense. Now, these various dances are still practiced and a great way to strengthen your body’s muscles. Capoeira classes are also offered at many cultural centers and gyms, but perhaps as a reward for completing a season of classes, hop on a plane to Brazil and enjoy instruction from some of the world’s Capoeira greats.
I have done them all except for the pole dancing class and I loved them all! Zumba is great depending on the teacher you have – my first Zumba teacher used a lot of Regeaton and it was AWESOME but other teachers have use crap music like flamenco. African is fun but it can be hard on your back if you don”t do it right. I love hip hop so long as it isn’t old school hip hop classes. Capoeira was cool but I prefer to samba my weight off!
just to add a number six: SOCACIZE!!!!!!
Ddon’t forget the Kukuwa African Dance Workout
Zumba is a GREAT way to lose weight or to stay fit! i took zumba to supplement my martial arts training. i’ve added more flow and rythem to my kata’s because of Zumba! also maintaining my weight helps with my speed and endurance for sparring. if you’re not afraid to sweat give Zumba try! its a fun workout for all ages (youth and adults classes available) and all sizes (you dont have to be super skinny or wear skimpy clothes)! Warning: Zumba can become addictive! i cant imagine going a week w/out taking my class.
I agree Zumba is great and addictive. I have the DVD’s and toning sticks. Can you say awesome….. I’m up every morning trying to decided which DVD to exercise to. My next challenge will be Pole Dancing….