Before you attend your first Zumba class, you may want to know a bit more about this type of workout and where the music hails from. This Latino style dancing features high-energy dance sequences, that incorporates traditional moves - the odd lunge, squats, and arm show-boating, which you must try to do to the sounds of fast, upbeat tunes. 

If this hasn’t tired you out, then read on! Any ballroom dancer will be au-fait with these moves, which centre on Latin dancing, like; salsa, mambo and flamenco - in turn, transporting you to the enchanting dance halls found in Spain, the Caribbean, Latin America and beyond. However, those that love the spritely beats of hip-hop will also enjoy Zumba.
 

“Mr Worldwide” himself, Pitbull features on most high-energy, up-tempo Zumba workout playlists. Contrary to his name, he’s a nightclub favourite with Latino heritage and wild music videos. It’s very easy to see why he remains on a Zumba playlist. If you really want to break out in a sweat, then Daddy Yankee’s best track, “Gasolina” is bound to get you moving in quick fashion, as will his latest collaboration with Luis Fonsi, “Despacito”. Be careful, this track will get stuck in your head!

This sort of workout music is very niche and expertly thought out. Think Shakira at the World Cup, with her “Wakka Wakka” moves that motivated many footballers around the world. It might not be the sort of music you’d put on at home, but in the heat of the dance class, it’s just the thing to get you moving! 

Even Beyoncé and Rihanna feature heavily on Zumba music lists around the globe, thanks to their ability in dancing, singing and entertaining simultaneously. They make it look so effortless, they’re a Zumba instructor’s dream! 

Fear not though, whatever your level of fitness, there are slower and easier Zumba tracks that will allow you to flow in time to the rhythm, like carnival God, Manu Chao or Buena Vista Social Club. It’s pure bliss listening and swaying to their tracks.

Zumba playlists often include music from other cultures, like Far Eastern beats and fusion music. Take Indian inspired Zumba music, especially tracks from Slumdog Millionaire, like “Jai Ho” which is an excellent track at keeping your upper-body moving, throughout the song, especially The Pussycat Dolls’ version. The classic “Walk like an Egyptian” by The Bangles is not only a good cool down track but also a brilliant dance move as well, and almost anything from the Black Eyed Peas is always a winner as this band employ so many voices, production and elements to their songs. We believe, the more exotic the song, the better the moves!

From young and spritely teens to well-waltzed ladies and gentlemen, when you sign up for a Neilson Zumba class you will find yourself in a mixed group, wonderfully all moving to the same Zumba beats. Of course, your class will be taken outdoors, weather permitting, and you could even find yourself shaking what God gave you on a beach, the grass, or even a pontoon! 

When it comes to Zumba music, Neilson Holidays know how to get you moving and your pulses racing! Getting in the zone and feeling the rhythm is the main objective of a Zumba class. You may be surprised to find so many up-tempo tracks during your Zumba workout, but your best bet is to dance along and maintain the energy that the music provides. Don’t hold back!

Plus, getting loose and letting your hips shake a little more is actually all part of the warm up! And, not forgetting the cooldown, which is also a key part of any exercise class.

Even if you are achy from all the sailing classes, waterski tows, and tennis matches, don’t stress. No matter what you have been up to, Zumba can ease your muscles and wake you up while also tiring you out! We love that feeling.

Just turn up with your brightest, clingiest workout wear, a bottle of water, and trust your Zumba instructor to get you moving in no time.

It truly is a workout for all fun-loving, energetic types! Just remember to keep smiling - you’re not in the gym, you’re outdoors and having fun on holiday, all the while keeping fit! Leave the concentrating to your fabulous Zumba instructor.

Ready to shake it? Head on down to the fitness deck.