Join in the fun with Zumba at Sky Yoga Studio
Zumba instructor combines fitness, fun
Nicki Anderson, Naperville Sun
September 9, 2009
Emily Canibano loved working with children, so much so that she went to college to earn her degree in secondary education. Her love of teaching and dedication to fitness eventually took her outside of the classroom straight to her business in Naperville: Sky Yoga Studio and More.
"As a child who struggled with weight issues I have always advocated getting kids moving," said Canibano. "Through my work with children, I found their parents were interested in taking my classes as well. I thought what better way to motivate kids to exercise than watching their parents enjoying fitness."
However, as she immersed herself in the world of fitness, Canibano felt it was a bit stagnant and wanted to find something new and interesting. She searched for something that would offer not only a great workout, but provide a fun element as well. That "something" turned out to be Zumba.
Emily Canibano’s Sky Yoga Studio in Naperville is the place for Zumba, a Latin-inspired fitness dance. Submitted by Emily Canibano
"I needed a change in my cardio routine. While I was on vacation in Kentucky I took a Zumba class and fell in love with the upbeat Latin rhythms, simple choreography and amazing amount of sweat generated by this fun format," she said.
And fun is the key — in fact the Zumba slogan is "Come to the Party!"
So what exactly is Zumba? "Simply put," says Canibano, "it is a Latin-inspired fitness dance."
According to www.zumba.com , as of July 2009, Zumba is being taught at more than 40,000 locations in 75 countries.
The Zumba routines feature interval training sessions where fast and slow rhythms and resistance training are combined to tone and sculpt the body. Add in the cool-down portion with stretching and Zumba carries out the four components of health-related fitness as outlined by American College of Sports Medicine’s guidelines: aerobic fitness, muscular fitness, flexibility and body composition. It’s wonderful because it is simple, fun and effective.
When I asked Canibano if the classes were appropriate for all levels, she said, "Absolutely! Zumba or Zumba Basic class is designed for all levels of fitness. Zumba Gold is specifically designed for individuals who require a slower-paced class, who may be post-rehab or have other limitations. I have taught Zumba Gold chair-based classes in senior residences and rehabilitation centers."
As a fitness professional, it’s my job to help folks find new exercise options for all fitness levels. In addition, it needs to be an activity that inspires consistency. Zumba seems to cover both of those prerequisites.
Apparently, Zumba is indeed for all fitness levels as Canibano taught Zumba throughout her pregnancy and went back to teaching six weeks post partum. Eight months later, she is teaching a class called Lil’ Latins so she can share the love of music and movement with her son.
No one is ever too old or too young to become active. Perhaps Zumba may provide the motivation needed to either get you started with an exercise program or tweak your current regimen.
Canibano teaches Zumba at local fitness centers, colleges and private corporations.
"Anywhere Zumba is wanted, I will be there," she said.
If you want to learn more about Zumba, call 630-386-0027. Sky Yoga Studio is at 124 S. Webster, Naperville.
