What Is Better: Zumba or Kettlebells?

What Is Better: Zumba or Kettlebells?
Written By
Jo Jackson
Jo Jackson
Feb 26, 2013
2 minute read

Zumba and kettlebell workouts each provide effective exercise programs. They both provide intensive exercise but differ in their approach. Zumba focuses on aerobic fitness and gives a good cardio workout, and kettlebells provide strength training, as well as cardio. Choosing the best option for you depends on your fitness goals, but you can incorporate both into your weekly exercise program, as cardio workouts and strength training should both be components in your fitness plan.

Zumba Fitness

    Zumba Fitness combines Latin music and dance moves into a fast-paced aerobic workout. It is good for burning calories and improving cardiovascular health. The beat of the music can help with endurance and helps make the workouts fun. Alternating fast and slow rhythms can incorporate interval training and resistance training components for toning and strengthening. To reap the full benefits, you need to accurately copy the instructor's movements to maintain the proper form while exercising.

Kettlebells

    Kettlebell workouts include dynamic swinging movements, which provide cardio exercise, as well as weight training. It is important to develop correct techniques to prevent injury, and as your fitness improves you can move to heavier weights. Kettlebell workouts are a high calorie-burning activity. Workouts are normally only 20 minutes, three to four times a week, so kettlebells are a good exercise choice for people with limited time. They are also good for those who have strength training as a primary fitness goal.

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Fitness Goals

    Whether Zumba or kettlebells is better depends on your fitness goals. If you have trouble staying motivated to exercise, then you might find Zumba the best choice because of the fun element. If you are a dedicated exerciser, you may prefer kettlebells as you need minimal equipment and can exercise at home when you have a spare 20 minutes. Kettlebells are better if you have strength training as a primary fitness goal.

Other Considerations

    When choosing a new type of exercise workout, fitness goals should not be the only consideration. Unless you are very dedicated, it is hard to follow an exercise regime that you do not enjoy. Before making a choice, visit a gym or personal trainer and try a Zumba class and try working with kettlebells. The best exercise is the one you can enjoy and will do on a regular basis.

Jo Jackson

Based in Canberra, Australia, Jo Jackson has written articles for newspapers and magazines since 1979 and for websites since 2007. Her writing has appeared in "Adelaide Advertiser," "Take 5" and "Australian Economic Indicators." She breeds…

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