Cardiovascular workouts come in many different forms: jogging, swimming, treadmills and Zumba. Also known as “aerobic exercise”, cardiovascular or “cardio” workouts are a great way to get fit while being engaged in activity. For those seeking to burn calories and tone their shape, the standard treadmill might seem like the answer. But for those who want a dose of fun and camaraderie, a Zumba workout is just what the doctor ordered, according to the Mayo Clinic’s Dr. Edward R. Laskowski.

Out with the Old Treadmill in with the New Zumba Workout

The question on which cardio routine to use is not just a matter of personal preference, it’s also about which is most accessible. While treadmills are available at nearly any gym, so is a good Zumba workout. Cardio seekers should consider the limited access to treadmills at busy gyms. While a Zumba workout can accommodate dozens of participants, treadmills are for single use. Of course, you can purchase a treadmill for use at home. But the cost is in the hundreds to thousands; while a Zumba workout DVD is equal to the price of a couple of lattes.

While treadmills are a staple of modern fitness, there’s no interaction between the user and the equipment. However, one Zumba workout may differ in energy and pace from another Zumba workout as trainers change from class to class. What’s more, a good Zumba workout creates an atmosphere of encouragement. Cardio goers certainly won’t hear a treadmill encourage them.

Change of Pace

So treadmills do allow users to change the speed and the steepness grade. But that’s all the flexibility they provide. For those that attend a Zumba workout, there will be a myriad of choices. Choose from beginner, intermediate and advanced. Worried about having two left feet? Don’t be. Those new to a Zumba workout won’t fret about their Stonehenge moves for long. The music takes control, others working out had to start somewhere too and most of all, it a great dose of fun, according to Wilhelmina Curve model, Erin Joy Henry, writing in the Huffington Post. She found what most do during their first Zumba workout, it’s more than following choreographed moves, it’s about the beat, the energy and the camaraderie.