Movin' & Groovin'
Tired of the same old workout? Try these five local exercise routines that will get your body bouncing, moving, and bending in ways it’s never done before.
by JAMIE MENAKER
PHOTOS Courtesy of: American Martial Arts Academy, Becky Fields, and Brenda Hartshorn
ZUMBA
Dedicated Zumba-goers swear by this fast-paced, shake-your-body-to-the-Latin-beat workout. Created in the late ‘90s by Columbian fitness pro Alberto “Beto” Perez, Zumba is inspired by the traditional heart-pumping moves of salsa, samba, meringue, and other Latin dance and music, with the total body workout of an aerobics class. Spanish slang for “to move fast and have fun,” Zumba classes are interval training at its best—the heart goes up, and then comes back down, and then goes up again—creating the ideal scenario to burn off those extra pounds with ease. Far from tedious exercise, Zumba classes are fun and mood-boosting, and you can’t help but groove to the music.
Where to find it:
In-Shape Sports Clubs
2303 W. March Lane, Stockton
(209) 472-2230
101 S. Tracy Blvd., Tracy
(209) 836-2504
www.inshapeclubs.com
Fitness Works
429 W. Lockeford St., Lodi
(209) 334-6224
www.twinarborsac.com
HULA AND TAHITIAN DANCE
Where to Find it:
Hula Ikaika Ohana O Kaawai / E Honu Iti E
4220 Commercial Dr., Ste. 5, Tracy
(209) 839-2205
www.tehonuiti.com
Hiva Nui
3120 Monte Diablo Ave., Stockton
(209) 462-HULA
www.hivanuiproductions.com
Lokes Looks
1195 W. 11th St., Tracy
(209) 832-8361
www.lokelooks.com
KRAV MAGA
Inspired by the self defense and hand-to-hand combat taught to the Israeli Defense Force, this hands-on practice is meant to teach confidence in the case that you are ever in physical danger from another person. Students learn how to respond to all types of attacks, and practice techniques on each other—this is one place where you won’t find students punching and kicking the air. An entry level class teaches fighting stance and movement, punches, kicks from different positions, and the art of self defense, and students will leave each class with a new skill. This total body workout comes with a side of newfound confidence.
Where to find it:
American Martial Arts Academy
6295 Pacific Ave., Stockton
(209) 952-4000
www.kravmaga.com
BELLY DANCING
The art of Middle Eastern dance is all about moving the body in ways that entice and entertain. Originally popular as a form of celebration at gatherings and events, belly dancing is meant to be enjoyable for both the dancer and the viewer. Embrace your body and learn to move in ways you may have never thought possible, toning your body and building strength and endurance. Many classes also teach students the traditional dress worn for belly dancing, and how to combine the finger cymbals, called “zils,” with the movements.
Where to find it:
Lokes Looks
1195 W. 11th St., Tracy
(209) 832-8361
www.lokelooks.com
BALLROOM DANCING
Depending on the dance style, ballroom dancing can range from a lively, fast-paced cardio workout to a lesson in poise and grace. An added perk is that you can get in your workout with a partner, which is always more fun. Try out the salsa, samba, cha cha, or the rumba. Or go another route and learn the waltz or the tango. Either way, you’ll be tapping your feet to the music in no time, and getting fit without even knowing it.
Where to find it:
Ballroom Bootcamp
1299 Lloyd Thayer Circle, Stockton
(209) 406-9239
www.theballroombootcamp.com
