What exercise does for your brain

I'm not the only one telling ya that exercise benefits much more than your waistline.

Check out this short article from Shape Magazine:

http://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/your-brain-exercise

The Rule of Three: Keep those good habits going!

New Year's gives us a new determination to start fresh with our good habits. Keep in mind The Rule of Three: it takes three weeks to establish a good habit. But guess how long it takes to break it? Only three DAYS. Thinking about skipping out on your new schedule? Choose carefully! In just three days you can slow your momentum. A body in motion stays in motion. Keep it up! You're doing great!

Find Your Thing

What's the best form of exercise? You've heard me say this before, "The one you like." You're a bagillion times more likely to stick with it. So I like this video that illustrates that point. I love Zumba®. I also love to run and do some weight training. What's your thing? Whatever it is, stick with it until you find it!

Why is everyone else better at this than me?

Are you new to Zumba®? I want you to know three things:

1) Zumba is designed to be easy to follow and fun. Some songs are easier than others. I try to offer a variety of rhythms, music, and dance styles. This variety is good for your body, too.

2) Everyone else that has been coming regularly knows *most* of the routines pretty well, so each class they only have to learn the one or two new songs that I bring. But at your first class, ALL the songs are new, so give yourself a break if you seem to not be "getting it" like everyone else. When I first came to a Zumba class, I got so lost on one song that I completely stopped moving just to watch the instructor for a minute and try to figure out what was going on. It's okay!

3) Give it at least three chances before you decide you can't do it! You'll be surprised how quickly you get used to the basic steps, you'll get used to the routines, and you're body will adjust to feeling all those new muscles you didn't know you had! And you'll relax enough to recognize how much you are SMILING and having a great time!

What to expect at your first class

My friend Shannon Robinson teaches Zumba in Springville. She posted a great summary of what to expect your first time. She's a smart girl! Thanks, Shannon.

http://springvillezumba.com/what-to-know-your-first-class/

I asked my class members to post comments about what their first Zumba class was like. You might like to read their comments here. http://zumbaspot.blogspot.com/2012/03/zumbaversary.html

Also, check the "FAQs" tab above to see other Frequently Asked Questions.