Many of us have classes, work and other responsibilities to attend to, but it is important to schedule some quality work out time. A regular workout routine may be nice but the monotony of typical cardio or the treadmill may decrease a person’s motivation to work out over time. If you find yourself in such a slump, then look no further than NEIU’s own Zumba class!

Held at the NEIU P.E. complex, Zumba is a great solution to cardio fitness boredom. It’s a rhythmic and vivacious mix of cardio dance set to the rhythms of Latin, Reggae Dance hall, and hip-hop music, tempered with the sensuality of belly dancing.

There are numerous instructors and each one is different in their approach, and may incorporate other genres of music; however it’s a great way to get the heart pumping and work up a sweat. The P.E. complex offers several Zumba class times throughout the week. However, for high-energy exercisers, Juan Ortiz’s class seems to be the perfect dance getaway from the stresses of college life.

Ortiz is a certified group exercise and Zumba instructor and has been in the business of dance fitness for 5 years. His experience in dance fitness has inspired him to create a spin-off of Zumba called “Feevah,” which he incorporates into his Zumba class. According to Ortiz, “Feevah” is dance fitness where “some of the music is sped up 3-12 times faster, making this one of the most powerful workouts ever.”

He successfully manages to incorporate the dance styles of Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue, Mambo, Salsa, Reggaeton, and Juke into a heart-racing dance routine set to the hottest Latin and Club hits, all while keeping the energy of his class at a motivating high. Right before the hour long session with Ortiz is over, he initiates a “cool down” with a slow tempo track which sets a good pace for stretches, relaxation and even breathing.

“My class is like Zumba on steroids, and because I’m so passionate about what I do, I believe my energy transfers over into my class.”

Ortiz’s Zumba classes are on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the NEIU P.E. Complex.