Since the majority of my colleagues are blogging about the good “goods” of 2009, I thought I’d be somewhat different (somewhat?) and write about one of my best experiences of 2009. Well, maybe not the best as it’s not fit to print (wink).

Moving on…

For anyone who has yet to hear of Zumba, the new aerobic craze sweeping Halifax, I’ll do my best to explain. At its most basic level, it combines Latin dancing with high-energy cardio in the form of hip-hop. It also incorporates strength-training moves such as standing crunches and squats. See-doesn’t that sound like the most fun ever?!

One of the things I love about Zumba is the fact that I completely forget that I am working out. I get totally lost in the dance moves and crazy energy of the music and the synergy of the class. I grin like the freaking Cheshire cat, as does our adorable pint-sized uber-energetic instructor, Richard!

With respect to music, routines are set to 2 different genres: one is popular music (Shakira, Ciara, Black Eyed Peas) and the other is music specifically designed for Zumba workouts (as is evidenced by the word “Zumba” being yelped out in every song).

Zumba’s origins are Latin and therefore by its very nature, “hot hot hot” – lots of pelvic thrusts and swinging hips. I really enjoy the hip-hop aspect as it lets me get some of my pent up attitude out in a healthy way; sticking my tongue out and swaggering around like I just stepped off the L-train.

Unequivocally, the best thing about Zumba is getting to share the experience with my fellow tramp, Mike Postma. Imagine if you will, a 6 foot 2, built like a brick $%^&house, 25-year-old Dutch guy, bopping along with a class full of women. I think people keep returning to our class at the YMCA in part because of what a great workout Zumba is and in part because of Mike’s pelvic thrusts!

If you want something excellent to add to your “Best of 2010”, I highly suggest you “ditch the workout and join the party!”

A Cape Breton gal born and bred, Erin traded in the tar ponds of Sydney for the windswept marshes of Sackville, N.B. where she received her Bachelor of Commerce, Major in Marketing from Mount Allison University. In addition to her formal education, Erin enrolled in the school of life and has travelled overseas extensively, living in both Scotland and The Netherlands. With respect to her work at trampoline, as the old adage goes, "if Erin doesn't know, it ain't worth knowing." In her spare time, Erin owns and operates Step Lively School of Dance, and waits for Adam to propose.