Group exercise classes have really changed throughout the years. Take a “step” back in time and a step forward with the newest and hottest group exercise class to hit the gyms and clubs in years—Zumba.

I have been teaching group exercise classes for almost two decades now. I just missed the leg-warmer days with world famous group exercise instructors such as Jane Fonda, Kathy Smith and Raquel Welch. But Jazzercise soon following these lean, long-legged legends. Jazzercise instructors kept the energy and momentum moving as they led choreographed classes to music.

These hi-low aerobic and Jazzercise classes had two things in common: great music and simple choreography. These classes were easy to follow and the instructors really knew how to keep it simple, achieving not only a feeling of non-clumsiness, but giving you a great workout with high-energy music.

Music was—and still is—the key to dance-inspired workouts. Remember C & C Music Factory with those famous lyrics: Everybody dance now/give me the music/ everybody dance now/yeah-yeah-yeah/everybody dance now/everybody dance now/yeah-yeah-yeah/ everybody dance now.

Now let’s jump to 2010. We still might still hear some of these older hit songs being played, but we most definitely will be hearing a heavy number of Latin dance remix songs with the growing popularity of Zumba. In fact, you might find yourself rushing out to the dance floor, moving your hips like Shakira. And when you walk up on the dance floor/ nobody cannot ignore the way you move your body, girl/and everything so unexpected/the way you right and left it/so you can keep on shaking it.

So just what is Zumba? A Zumba class or a class styled after this concept focuses on Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves that will get you moving and grooving. Zumba is a fun and easy class that fuses Latin rhymes and easy steps with great music.

These routines balance between fast- and slow-moving foot patterns so you find yourself getting a workout as well as challenging your coordination and mastering some great Latin steps. The next time that song calls you out to the dance floor, you’ll be able to answer! Look for a Latin dance class most likely offered on the group exercise schedule at your gym.

So what are you waiting for? If you don’t want to dance with friends or people you meet at a bar or nightclub, you can always turn up the stereo, put on your favorite pair of underwear, and pretend you are Madonna!

Michael Paduano, is executive director, of the Wellness Foundation Palm Springs, author of Healing Yoga, an instructional DVD with a western approach and Zoo Yoga, created for children's interests and skill levels. Michael is an international gold medalist in sport aerobics, two times NPC Mr. Fitness and overall fitness enthusiasts. Realtor for Windermere Real Estate. Michael is always looking for events and athletes so contact him today! mpaduano@windermere.com.