Zumba® classes feature fast-paced choreography obtained from diverse music traditions from Punjabi Bhangra to Hip-Hop Music. However, Zumba® depends chiefly on moves derived from Latin dancing. Zumba® basic steps are not complex as such; they just require practice. These are the basic Zumba® steps in Latin genres.

Cumbia

• The basic Cumbia dance starts with the feet together and arms at each side, bent at the elbows.
• Tap the right foot behind, followed by tapping the left foot in place.
• Bring the right foot back to starting position and repeat the same movements on the left side.
• As you step back, rotate your body to the side.
• Arms should be a little higher than the waist and bent at the elbows.
• Make small circles with your arms between your hips and shoulders.

Merengue

• A basic merengue dance step starts with your forcing weight on your right leg.
• With the first beat, touch your right foot to the inside edge of the left foot.
• On the half count, roll your left foot forward onto the floor.
• On the next beat, bring your right foot up to center, recreating the pose from the beginning.

Samba

• To perform Samba, start by stepping forward with your left foot.
• Next, move your right foot next to your left foot.
• Keep your left foot in place and shift your weight onto it.
• Step backward with your right foot, and then move your left foot next to to your right foot.
• Keep your right foot in place and shift your weight onto it.

Salsa

• A basic salsa dance move will be timed to the beat of the music, and you should be light on your toes.
• Start with your feet together.
• Step forward with your left foot then rock back onto your right.
• Step back with your left foot and hold the beat.
• Step back with your right foot, then rock forward onto your left.

Reggaeton

• Start your Reggaeton dance by moving your hips in a circular motion.
• Put your feet together and bend your knees just a little.
• Bring your left foot to the left side, followed by your right foot.
• Tap your right foot on the floor.
• Repeat, but this time starting with the right foot.

Effects

Different basic zumba steps foster different benefits. Generally, salsa and reggaeton furnish a cardiovascular workout that lead to fat-burning, while particular features of merengue and cumbia in Zumba®, emphasize more on strengthening specific body parts, hips, thighs, legs and stomach muscles, as well as stimulating greater persistence.

Practice for Perfection

If you are working out at home to a Zumba® DVD, work on one or two steps a day is recommended, and move on to additional steps later on. If you are taking Zumba® classes at a gym or studio, try for two, three or more classes a week for faster perfection and greater fitness.