It’s Totally Doable: 4 Tips to Learn Zumba®

We want you to have a good time with us, whether virtual or in-person. Having a good time might feel challenging because you’re trying hard to learn the moves. You might feel awkward and uncoordinated, and that’s no fun! And if you’re following us on Zoom, technology issues can sometimes make things a little tricky. 

When taking an Island Beats® class, don’t let a good time escape you. Learning our style of Zumba® is totally doable when you consider these four tips. 

1. Commit to joining us regularly for at least four classes monthly.

One class isn’t enough time to learn our style or routines, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Latin rhythms. It took me months to get comfortable moving my hips to merengue and bachata. You’ll see those different rhythms have their own moves, which we often repeat. The more you come, the more your muscles will remember the moves because they have a memory. 

On another note: We’re offering Basic Rhythms monthly starting on February 25 (register here) for those who want to learn basic moves to merengue, salsa, reggaeton, and bachata.

2. Keep moving as you watch.

Learning by doing is one of the best ways to adapt to Island Beats. Don’t let your mind trick you into thinking you’re doing it wrong or look stupid. This is key! If you miss a step, it’s okay. Go with the flow, and don’t stop, wiggle! Sooner or later, you’ll get it because most steps in our routines are on repeat.  And for those joining us on Zoom, it’s best to watch on a bigger screen than a mobile device. If you have a laptop or tablet, try them instead.

3. Follow our non-verbal and verbal cues.

As Zumba® instructors, we use non-verbal cues to help you learn the moves. These hand gestures tell you where to go, how many moves to make, or what body part to use. We sometimes mix it with quick verbal cues, but they can be hard to hear because we aren’t mic’d. My favorite verbal cue in Me Cansé when we make that hip turn to the side is “wiggle, wiggle, wiggle.” So when you see us doing something with our hands, or we yell out, “Wakanda forever,” it’s a cue and not part of the routine.

4. Listen to the music we play in class.

When you become familiar with the various rhythms we use in our choreo routines, your experience will improve. It also helps to learn the distinction between the different rhythms. Merengue, salsa, and bachata are different, as are the moves, including how you move your hips in all three. 

We are all about you experiencing joy, energy, and confidence. These tips should help you stop the “I can’t dance narrative.” It’s dulling your shine.❤️

Join us for class and an upcoming event to feel the Island Beats vibe for yourself.