Zumba is usually a high-energy workout - dancing, twisting,and jumping to the Latin beat of salsa and merengue.
It’s a great fitness activity, but not necessarily ideal for seniors with knee, hip or back problems.
Until now.
Shorian Hutchinson has launched Zumbarella, a company that offers Zumba for seniors, bringing the fitness activity to retirement residences and local seniors' groups.
Hutchinson and the other instructors with Zumbarella “are all from Latin America, and we incorporate our Latin American vibes,” she said. “There’s less jumping, it’s a slower tempo, and the choreography tries to accommodate to their knees!”
She added, “It’s different, and a lot of fun!”
Hutchinson had just finished the Zumba for Seniors demonstration class at the Danube Seniors Leisure Centre, on Friday morning.
More than 20 seniors of all ages and abilities came out for the introductory session. Some energetically followed Hutchinson’s every dance move – starting slowly, but picking up the tempo as the class went on.
Others limited their moves, due to medical issues; still others followed along while sitting on a chair.
The music was also geared to seniors - mostly Golden Oldies, like La Bamba and The Twist.
Edale Levene, Program Director at the centre, arranged for the Zumbarella demonstration and participated in the work-out.
“I enjoyed it,” Levene said – noting that it will be up to the members of the BWG Seniors Association to decide if Zumba will become a permanent addition to the regular fitness activities at the centre.
Levene is always on the lookout for fitness and wellness activities that might intrigue members. “It’s nice to introduce new things,” she said.
She has arranged for another demonstration class on Jan. 30, upstairs at the centre – this time, Mindful Meditation.
“It’s something entirely new,” she said. “A lot of people are interested in it because it relieves stress.”
The Danube Seniors Leisure Centre is located at 715 Simcoe Rd. in Bradford. For more information, call the office at 905-775-0612 or click here.
A reminder: There will be a Members Only luncheon, Summer in January, on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 11:30 a.m., with cold roast turkey and roast pork loin, a selection of salads and dessert, only $10. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Wear your sunhats, sunglasses and Hawaiian shirts!
The Saturday movie afternoon at the Danube Centre, Jan. 25 at 1 p.m. offers popcorn, refreshments and a screening of the movie Yesterday, for only $3. Everyone welcome.