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Have Fun with the Dance Fitness Craze!
by Robert Arbogast, Recreation Specialist
 Dance fitness is everywhere! It's almost impossible to read a fitness schedule, tour a gym, or even flip channels without stumbling across some type of dance fitness class. ZumbaŽ is definitely the most recognizable, but where did the dance fitness craze start? It goes back further than you might think.
Many in the fitness industry point to Evansville, Indiana and the year 1969. It was here, in a small group fitness studio, that Judi Sheppard Missett combined her love for dance and fitness to create Jazzercise. In a few short years, the program was a fitness and commercial success. The first video cassette tape was available in 1984 and classes could be found in all 50 states. By the 90's, Jazzercise had made its way into 32 countries. I still run into participants that reminisce about their favorite Jazzercise instructor and a few of them still take a class around town occasionally.
In 2001, the dance fitness world had another revelation. ZumbaŽ creators put together what they call a "fitness party," combining hot Latin dance steps, exhilarating sound tracks and energetic instructors. We are proud to have some of the area's top instructors teaching at our own recreation centers. ZumbaŽ classes have inspired thousands of participants to get moving, burn calories and shed pounds.
Within our department, we have tried to make the dance fitness craze as accessible as possible. ZumbaŽ is now offered in most of our recreation centers. We also offer Zumba GoldŽ at Bayside and Princess Anne. This class breaks down the moves and gives those new to the format a firm grasp on the basics. Princess Anne also offers ZumbaŽ Toning which emphasizes toning movements in the same dance party atmosphere.
We also have an exciting new opportunity at Great Neck with the introduction of FuzeCraze™. Similar in style to ZumbaŽ, FuzeCraze™ incorporates different styles of international dance and a variety of music to give you the aerobic workout you're looking for. |
In celebration of July as Parks & Recreation Month, we've got three great ways for you to show (and share) your love for Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation! 
"I started taking group fitness classes with Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation just about one year ago. Since that time, I have dropped 65 pounds! The pants that I have on in the picture are the only pair I have kept that I wore before starting a fitness program. I can actually fit into one leg of the pants that used to be snug on me.
When the heat rises, so does the risk of dehydration. Here are a few tips for staying hydrated this summer:
Want to join our recreation centers, but don't want to pay for a full year up front? Beginning July 1, you can enjoy all of the great benefits of a membership, without the annual commitment! 