Should You Zumba During Your Period?

The story of Zumba is one of those once in a blue moon deals where someone strikes gold because of a novel and different idea they came up with on the fly. Alberto Perez accidentally created Zumba when he choreographed a spur of the moment dance to one of his Latin mix CDs, and this class became such a hit that soon it was popular all over the world.

Zumba is a dance workout that’s inspired by Latin styles of dances. It’s a fitness party where exercise meets fun and everyone who’s tried has ended up not only enjoying themselves but also losing weight and feeling fit.

Zumba During Your Period

There is no harm in doing Zumba during your period. If anything all the movement and muscle stretching will help ease stomach cramps and make you feel better.

There are certain Dos and Don’ts that should be kept in mind when trying to do Zumba during your period.

Precautions to Take

It would be a good idea to consult with your physician or gynecologist before you start. You might not be able to do certain moves and might have to modify certain others.

Also let your Zumba instructor know so if he / she can make some special recommendations for you they would do so. They would also let you modify some of the moves however you feel comfortable.

Drink plenty of water before and after Zumba class. It’s important to keep hydrated, otherwise it can lead to cramps. Also, make sure you wear comfortable clothes that are absorbent, loose and breathable. Don’t let yourself overheat.

Dancing too vigorously will make you unable to breathe properly; defies the purpose and the goal when you can’t hold a conversation with the other people at the class. Take it at your own pace and don’t try to overdo it.

Try to keep it low impact. One foot should always be on the ground. Make sure your heart rate doesn’t go up dangerously high, to the point where it’s thudding in your chest like crazy.

Don’t forget that when you do Zumba during your period your joints are especially vulnerable. Try to take it easy on them and the rest of your muscles. Focus on abdominal moves that would stretch out the ligaments and muscles in the abdomen and ease the pain of cramps.

If you are over exerting yourself your body will let you know. Take these signals seriously. Some of the signals your body might give you include; dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, headaches and swelling in the calves.

Alternately you should try Yoga for menstrual pains. It will not only help clear your mind and relieve stress, it will also give you a positive outlook on life and heal all physical pains, including stomach cramps.