Pull up a chair and Zumba
If you want some serious core work done and toning your body, this is the exercise for you.
Most people have either heard of or tried Zumba, the exercise that moves to the rhythm of Latin music, but Ballito is now home to a new form: Zumba Sentao.
Chantelle Nicholson is KZN’s only qualified Zumba Sentao instructor and offers this unique workout at Sugar Dance Studio, where she also works as a dance teacher.
“Zumba Sentao is a chair workout that focuses on using body weight to strengthen and tone the body,” said the energetic and bubbly Nicholson.
Nicholson explained that Zumba is a dance fitness program that was created by Colombian dancer and choreographer Alberto “Beto” Perez during the 1990s, featuring movements inspired by various styles of Latin American dance and performed primarily to Latin American music but also all other types of other music from around the world.
“I have been a Zumba instructor for nearly four years with licenses to teach in Zumba fitness; Zumba kids and Zumba junior; Zumba Toning; Zumba Gold and most recently Zumba Sentao. To have the privilege to teach any of these classes you are required to do the courses and receive your license through Zumba in America,” she said.
Nicholson said anyone who wants to get some serious core work done and tone their entire body should join the Zumba Sentao classes.
“Zumba Sentao combines strength and resistance training with innovative dance moves making it an intense and unique workout. Sentao focuses on challenging and defining your muscles without lifting weights. It also improves overall cardiovascular health, while burning hundreds of calories in the process.”
She added that this type of Zumba is great for men too, so bring your boyfriends and husbands along.
“It is perfect for those that have joined a Zumba class before, as it adds the “gym” workout section to your fitness programme,” she said.
Nicholson said it is impossible to choose her favourite move, because once the music gets going, she gets lost in the hip-hop, samba and salsa rhythms and just enjoys every movement.
Her students feel the same and love that they have so much fun while exercising.
Tamryn Fourie said she could not believe that her stomach muscles hurt after one class that did not involve getting onto the floor and doing crunches.
“It’s amazing how simple movements and a chair can achieve good pain where you need it most,” said Fourie.
Karien Nel loves knowing that Zumba Sentao tones and firms her body whilst still having all the Zumba fun.
“Sentao takes Zumba to the next level,” said Nel.
Fellow student, Lara Hopkins loves how good Zumba Sentao makes her and the other students feel.
“People walk into the studio after having a bad day and walk out with a jump in their step,” said Hopkins.
“Chantelle is an awesome instructor and knows just how to push you past your comfort level where you are really working your body.”
To join in the chair fun on Tuesdays at 6.30pm at The Quarter, contact Nicholson on 0843512987 to reserve a seat.
