Everyone is talking about Zumba. It’s “exercise in disguise,” says one of the instructors, Michele Fraser. Michele, who has been teaching fitness classes for 22 years, says Zumba is popular because you work up a sweat, and it’s a comfortable environment since it’s so much fun. The class is set with to Latin-infused music, with dance moves, strength, and cardio exercises. The more you learn the moves, the more intense the workout. “I’m blown away at how popular it is, the response is overwhelming!” says Fraser. This is partly due to the set up, there are lots of classes, in lots of neighborhoods, and for many you pay per class (or buy a punch card). The cost is $6.00/class or $55.00 for a 10-class punch card.
Michele teaches Zumba at the Étoile de l’Acadie (behind Kiwanis Pool) on Prince Street in Sydney on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm with Gian MacLean. Morning Zumba Classes with Vicki Whyte, backed up by Gian MacLean take place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-10:30 and there is child care available for $2.00/kid! The morning classes are held at the Cheerdome on Keltic Drive (next to the Farmer’s Market). Michele Fraser begins a Zumba Express class during Lunch for those who work downtown, taking place 12:10-12:50 at D&R Dance Studio (above East Coast Dancewear and Stitches on Charlotte Street). The lunchtime sessions are a 5-week block from October 6-November 5 so its best to register in advance for this session. Michele can be reached at 567-0893 or michelles_fitness@hotmail.com.
Zumba is in New Waterford, with instructor Lee Campbell. The New Waterford classes are in a 6-week block, so they require pre-registration. They take place Wednesdays and Thursdays at 5:30 in the New Waterford Fire Hall, and Sunday evenings at 7:00 at Calvin Hall. Lee will also be instructing in Glace Bay soon! Lee can be reached at (902) 862-3010.
Zumba is coming to the Northside too! Sunday October 4 at St. Pius X Hall, Main Street Sydney Mines is the first class. Sundays and Thursdays at 7:00pm, drop in! $6.00/class.
And, aside from Zumba, there is another great class instructed by Michele Fraser: Cardio Fit Mix on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 6:00 at the Étoile de l’Acadie. This class is $5/class or $40/10-class punch card. She uses weights and body bars and blends cardio and toning. This woman is a great instructor, and is well revered locally. Her energy and enthusiasm is infectious, and it feeds the workout. “When I stop loving it I’ll stop doing it,” she says.
