Over the years, I’ve taken many Zumba classes. I’ve noticed instructors talk about this, and I’ve seen it myself.
There are people who stay true to the Zumba brand. Zin who are loyal, and follow the brand to the letter! You’ll see them wearing a Zumba shirt, pants, hat, and even Zumba sneakers. They use only Zin approved songs, and choreography. These are what I call “real zumba” instructors.
Then there are other instructors who teach a “Zumba” class, but are not really teaching Zumba as far as the brand goes. It is in essence a sort of cardio dance class, simply being called Zumba.
I think that many gyms allow this to avoid confusing people. Everyone knows the name Zumba, so I think it is used universally to indicate some sort of dance class. However, you can tell the difference in styles when it is is a real Zin proponent.
Mind you, I’m not saying one is better than the other, I’m just making a distinction that I’ve noticed while going to many gyms all over the NYC area. I enjoy both styles, and it really comes down to the instructor, their vibe, song choice, etc.
Many of the classes I attend are not “traditional Zumba” classes, and I love them. Just the same, I’ve taken “traditional Zumba” classes, and I love them too. Variety in life is necessary, and I’m grateful that everyone brings their own flavor and style to it. Otherwise, if they were all clones of each other, things would get boring really fast!
I know that Zin proponents get mad about the renegade instructors, but this is the real world, and people do what they do. At the end of the day, as long as people are getting healthier, it’s all good in the hood!