They’re moving and grooving to the music while improving cardiovascular and muscle strength, balance and flexibility in ZUMBA(®) GOLD classes at Madison Senior Center.

Weekly classes meet on Tuesdays from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. at the center, 1282 Hughes Road. All ages are welcome.

Instructor Michelle Durig is licensed in both ZUMBA and ZUMBA GOLD, certified as aerobic fitness instructor with International School of Aerobic Training and certified for CPR and automated external defibrillators.

With more than 17 years of experience, Durig teaches fitness classes for step, slide, mini-trampoline and aerobic dance for all ages and abilities.

Both ZUMBA and ZUMBA GOLD are based on the idea of “dance exercising” to international rhythms. “However, ZUMBA GOLD is a low-impact, more moderate version of ZUMBA,” Durig said. “Routines and movements are designed to avoid over-stressing the knees, hips and backs.”

ZUMBA GOLD offers beginners a great start on their fitness journey and is appropriate for all ages, even with physical limitations.

Classes begin with a warm-up for 8-12 minutes. “During these first songs, routines are easy step-touches, side steps, marches, along with simple arm movements designed to warm up muscles and joints,” center acting manager Vickie Parker said.

Instructor Michelle Durig

Then, the routine flows to the main ‘cardio’ section with simple dance steps and arm movements, which individuals can increase or decrease in intensity. Accompanying music incorporates merengue, salsa, mambo, Bollywood, calypso and reggaeton. “This international fusion of music makes ZUMBA GOLD both unique and fun,” Parker said.

After cardio, a cool-down song follows. The session ends with about five minutes of stretching major muscle groups.

Students are encouraged to have fun with the music and easy steps and exercise at their level. ZUMBA GOLD students range from younger individuals to active, older adults and people who are chair-bound.

“Some center members are taking the classes, but you don’t need to be a member to enroll,” Parker said.

Class fee is $5, or a punch card for $30 covers eight classes.

For more information, call Parker at 256-772-6242 or send email to vickie.parker@madisonal.gov.