ZUMBA

CAN I DO HIGH-INTENSITY DANCE CLASSES, LIKE ZUMBA?

Zumba is a form of intense, strenuous and even explosive Latin aerobic dance. Strenuous dance exercise such as Zumba will be more of a challenge during pregnancy, as the amount of blood circulated by the heart increases to as much as 30 to 50 percent above normal. The heart rate rises and the risk for muscle strain, tearing or other injury from Zumba increases, since the same hormone that helps the uterus expand also softens the body’s connective tissues, making the joints more unstable. Experienced instructors can suggest modifying routines to avoid impact and twisting and to slow transitions. Keep one foot on the floor at all times, march instead of jumping, use fewer arm movements and avoid quick turns. You have to listen to your body.