Impressive Turn Out For YMCA Zumba® Fitness Party

A three-hour Zumba® Fitness Party at in Palatine attracted more than 100 people to dance to the beat while getting a pretty intense workout Sunday.

“Zumba® is really just energetic and fun-we don’t expect instructors
or participants to be at any certain level-the point is to keeping moving and work out at the level that is comfortable for you,” said Jennifer Peldiak, senior Zumba® instructor.

Peldiak teaches Zumba®a at YMCA's throughout the area including in , and . Some people who attended were seasoned Zumba® participants, while others were trying out the Latin-inspired dance-fitness program.

“This is my first time trying Zumba®,” said Archana Mistry, Hoffman Estates resident.  “I’ve gotten bored with other workouts as I’ve tried to lose weight; it is so fun while getting in shape is just a by-product of that.”

Palatine resident Joann Kelly, who has been doing Zumba® for the last five years, says what keeps her coming back is how much fun she has doing it.   

“It’s like a party and working out all at the same time-it is high-intensity, but you really don’t notice because of the energy and excitement in the room,” Kelley said.

The ‘exciting’ aspect of the class appears to be a resounding theme for both instructors and participants.

“Zumba® really is a way of life-you get the energy projected from other people going in the room and it takes everyone to a very inspiring place,” said Nori Campa, Zumba instructor.

“What really makes it great for me is the high level of excitement-after I’m done I am really energized, happier and ready to take on the world,” said Renata Pluta, Buffalo Grove resident.

Participants at the event ranged from grade school children to senior citizens.

“What is really great about Zumba® is the variety of people that take part in it-we have instructors ranging from those in their thirties all the way to their sixties, and the average age of those who take the class are in their mid-forties,” said Anne Springer, Buehler YMCA athletic director.

Springer added that because of the wide age and experience range of instructors, no one feels they are too young, old or inexperienced to enjoy Zumba® and get something out of it.

Zumba® classes are included in the YMCA membership, but for those just starting out – Zumba Gold  – a less intensive class, is available for a nominal fee.

“When we began offering Zumba®, we had about 20 people who took the class, and now we average at least 60 people per class-it’s become very popular because the overall goal is to get people moving,” said Springer.