
Dancing the helicopter hop
By Peter Corlett
Shoppers in Coastlands at Paraparaumu have been treated to a surprise fitness dance routine demonstration by three instructors and Zumba enthusiasts from the City Fitness gym.
Zumba is a fitness program focusing on dance, created in the 1990’s by Colombian dancer and choreographer Alberto “Beto” Perez.
The Zumba dances involve a variety of dance moves and aerobic movements performed to mainly Latin style music. The choreography incorporates elements from hip-hop, soca, samba, salsa, merengue and mambo.
When asked about the appeal of Zumba, dancer Emma Te Paa said: “I started doing Zumba because I wanted to build my confidence and get healthy, and dance can trick the brain for people who may not necessarily like the idea of exercising.
“Now I am an instructor!”.
The display was to promote a fundraiser for the Westpac rescue chopper to be held at City Fitness on Sunday afternoon, 21st May.
“The fundraiser is to raise funds for the Westpac chopper appeal because we know people who they have helped including one of our Kapiti Zumba instructors”, she said.
Tickets are available from the Westpac branch in Coastland, City Fitness gym or purchased at the door if not sold out prior.