22 | December 2011 | woman this month Showcase Sweat Break a DESSANGE It’s the new thing in town and the most exciting among workout regimes known to man. We sat down with Lelani Vrey, the health club manager at Dessange, to discuss their popular Zumba classes. WTM: According to you, why must one workout? LV: Exercising increases your quality of life. You see people at the age of 40 who can’t spend quality time with their dear ones because they’re tired or weak. Working out offers you several benefits, like lifting your mood due to the release of “happy hormones.” You’re more focused at work; you sleep better. It improves your social life as well. When you look better, you feel more confident. It helps bring down stress levels and even motivates you to take up more challenges and be more goal-oriented. WTM: Why do you think your Zumba sessions have gained success and popularity? LV: To begin with, it appeals to a big market. Anyone, from a professional background dancer to a beginner, can be a part of the same class. Even the less co-ordinated ones can follow the instructor easily. Secondly, it is a good workout from which you can learn a lot. Zumba incorporates hip-hop, salsa and other Latin forms of dance. It includes faster tracks as opposed to recovery ones and works on different muscles in a single session. Thirdly, it is a lot of fun. The variety keeps it interesting. WTM: Is it enough to lose weight, tone your muscles and get a complete body makeover? LV: Zumba sessions change every month. For the best results, attend three classes a week. After two months, combine it with an exercise where you use more muscle. Combine it with yoga or pilates to improve flexibility. I also recommend body pump or free motion, uniquely at Dessange, at least once a week. Just as important as it is to stay motivated, you must also listen to your body and know when to stop and give yourself a break. WTM: Is there a right age-group to practise Zumba? LV: No; that’s the beauty of it. Last summer, we had a camp where we organised Zumba for teens. We even had kids from the age of six participating. This has no impact on growth and doesn’t cause any damage. So, it is safe for all ages. We even conduct “mother and daughter” private sessions; it offers a new kind of bonding time. WTM: Do you require any special gear? LV: No, not beyond cross-trainer shoes. These provide more support for the ankle and more balance for faster movements. WTM: Do you have any fitness myth busters to spare? LV: Women generally believe they shouldn’t work with weights as it gets them all buffed up and they thus rely solely on cardio. This isn’t true; you need both muscle endurance and strength. Also, people think low intensity workouts for a longer period helps you burn more calories. That isn’t going to get you anywhere. I’ve heard people are advised to walk and not run. If you’ve noticed, those running are usually more fit than those walking. And, no, cycling does not make your behind larger! WTM: And finally, what, in your opinion, are the fitness essentials? LV: Firstly, nutrition, hydration and proper sleep. Secondly, hit the gym at least thrice a week. Thirdly, have the right workout kit — shoes, clothes, sports bra and other gear. I always stress on the importance of knowledge. If you aren’t sure, get professional advice. Do not follow random suggestions blindly. Call 17 713-999 or visit www.alghalia.com. Lelani Vrey
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