How many calories does Zumba Burn?

A Brief History of Zumba

Zumba was created by accident, by a Columbian Aerobics Instructor and Dancer, Alberto Perez. When teaching a dance class one day, he realised he forgot his regular music and so had to use a mix of Salsa and Marangue music. It was obviously a hit, with millions of Zumba enthusiast worldwide, branded sportswear, music and videos, Zumba is big business, but how many calories can you burn with Zumba?

Zumba has emerged as a fun and interesting way to lose weight and stay fit. Everyone wants to follow a fitness regime, but let’s face it – exercising can be boring! 

We are all determined at the beginning, but it’s hard to fit in exercising with our busy schedules; and at some point, a lot of us drop out. However, Zumba has always managed to keep the participants engaged and coming back for more, because it is filled with fun and excitement. 

It is a high energy workout combining dance moves and aerobic exercises. The party-like atmosphere of Zumba keeps people interested and motivated. The fact is that it doesn’t feel like exercise at all. 

Those who are struggling to lose weight can certainly opt for Zumba over other weight loss programs, as it keeps them motivated with the entertainment factor. When exercise is more exciting than just being a tedious chore, it makes you stick to the routine.

How many Calories does Zumba Burn?


How many calories you burn in a Zumba session depends upon your weight, your sex, your current fitness level, body/muscle composition and the duration of your workout. Not even the official Zumba site tells you how many calories you burn during a Zumba session. 

In an ideal situation, an hour-long Zumba session of fast dancing can help you burn anywhere between 500 - 800 calories. 

Statistics and Numbers

Here is how effective Zumba could be for you when it comes to losing out on those extra calories, easily.

A person weighing 10.7 stone, can burn approximately 430 calories in a 60 minute Zumba session
A person weighing 14.2 stone, can reduce approximately 475 calories in a 60 minute Zumba session
A person weighing 17.8 stone can get rid of approximately 715 calories in a 60 minute Zumba session
A person weighing 21.4 stone can eliminate approximately 860 calories in a 60 minute Zumba session

Conclusion

Of course, everyone is different, and only a heart monitor can tell you how many calories you have burnt exactly. It depends upon the intensity of your workout and is also based upon the metabolic rates per intensity.

If you want to lose weight, then you must burn more calories than you consume. Most Zumba lovers continue their classes without increasing their food intake, and that’s what works best for them. 

For any exercise, you always need to keep a check on your food intake along with the exercise plan. However, Zumba has proven to be effective because of its motivation factor. It is a fun fitness class which makes you sweat but also makes you smile, putting you on the path to good health and fitness levels.