ZIN Bhavita Parekh takes us on an amazing trail demonstrating how Zumba can change lives, drawing from her own experiences.
Getting dressed in vibrant joggers, gathering every bit of energy, roaring upbeat Latin music and grooving to it with all heart out, that’s all you Imagine when someone mentions Zumba. This fun workout has become a fitness craze worldwide, and there’s so much more than meets the eye to this energetic dance-fitness phenomenon.
So, how can one encounter the ‘more’ factor of it, well, we have got you covered. Incredible Zumba Instructor Bhavita Parekh was in the house for a chit-chat session, and we did our part, conversed with her and explored every bit of the Zumba sides as possible.
From a post-partum workout to a complete lifestyle shift, Zumba has redefined Bhavita's life in ways she never imagined. Her Zumba journey transformed from a humble beginner to a fitness powerhouse, showcasing how the Zumba community has evolved into a space for mental well-being, creativity, and pure joy.
A Life Transformed
"I started Zumba as a post-partum workout to get back in shape," Bhavita recalls. "I stumbled upon a YouTube video, got hooked, and soon searched for a class to join. Little did I know, that was just the beginning."
Bhavita’s instructor saw her potential and encouraged her to pursue certification as a Zumba Instructor. Ten years later, she now runs a full-fledged fitness studio, transforming not only her body but her entire way of life. She smiles as she points to her curly, carefree hair and effortlessly styled denim look. “I was once a modest, introverted girl,” she says. “Zumba made me embrace a new version of myself. Instructors are expected to wear vibrant clothes and project an outgoing personality. As I interacted with new students, I realised that I needed to help them open up, too. That’s when I began to embrace my extroverted side.”
It’s not just about the moves or the rhythm; Zumba changes you inside out. Bhavita’s transformation is proof that Zumba isn’t just a fitness routine, it’s a lifestyle shift. "Very few people talk about how Zumba changes your entire life, but it did that for me."
Get set Zumba – Beginners
One of Bhavita's favourite aspects of teaching is working with absolute beginners, regardless of age. "I love the challenge of training someone from scratch," she says. "I find it incredibly rewarding to guide people through their first steps."
And the best part? Zumba is addictive, accessible, and fun! With its easy-to-follow routines and infectious beats, beginners quickly find their groove, often within just 15-20 days. "Watching them fall in love with Zumba gives me an incredible dopamine high," Bhavita grins.
Her classes are diverse, catering to everyone from children to the elderly. But beyond physical fitness, Bhavita has noticed an important shift: many students come to her classes seeking relief from mental strain. This brings us to the heart of Zumba’s hidden superpower.
Zumba: The Unlikely Mental Health Healer
Over the years, Bhavita has noticed a surge in younger students coming to her for an unexpected reason: mental health. "Many of my students, especially children, teens, and women, struggle with depression," she shares. "They need a break from their routine, something to uplift their spirits."
While Bhavita’s initial motivation for teaching Zumba wasn’t financial, witnessing how Zumba helped people, especially the younger generation, heal emotionally gave her a renewed sense of purpose. She saw Zumba becoming a form of therapy for so many. It’s an escape – an hour where they can forget their worries, dance, and just feel free.
The days of focusing purely on weight loss have taken a back seat. "Now, my classes are more about mental well-being," she says. "I’m so proud to be a bridge for many people to come out of depression,” Bhavita claims that she has witnessed Zumba have helped people realize their inner beauty and strength.
The Evolution
From its humble beginnings, Zumba has exploded into a global fitness trend. In the past decade, it has evolved into a creative and inclusive workout form, with various types of classes such as Chair Zumba, Aqua Zumba, Stick Zumba, and Stepper Zumba. Bhavita offers them all at her studio, keeping things fresh and exciting for her students.
Zumba has even made its way into surprising spaces. "Recently, I conducted a Zumba session at a children’s sports day. It was a huge hit, and I was honestly surprised to see the parents enjoying it more than the kids!" Bhavita laughs. "And don’t even get me started on the Mehendi ceremony at a wedding! It was such a blast. Everyone was dancing while getting their mehendi done – it was chaos in the best way possible."
Zumba’s versatility and ever-evolving nature keep it exciting, and Bhavita is lucky to have a team that embraces creativity. "We’re always looking for fun new ways to make fitness engaging," she adds.
The Heart‘BEAT’: Music
At its core, Zumba is all about the rhythm. With its Latin-inspired beats, it’s a dance workout that is as much about the music as it is the movement. Bhavita explains, “Zumba wouldn’t be the same without the music. The Latin beats set the energy for the entire class.”
The playlist varies from slow-paced songs for warm-up to fast beats that get the heart racing, followed by a cool-down session with gentle melodies. Even though the lyrics are often in Spanish or Portuguese, the infectious rhythm speaks a universal language, making it easy to connect with anyone.
And it’s not just about the adults—Bhavita tailors her music for kids and seniors, too, ensuring everyone finds a beat they can move to. “It’s incredible to see how music can connect people of all ages,” she says.
A Dedication to the Craft
Being a Zumba instructor requires more than just dance skills—it’s about dedication, constant learning, and keeping up with trends. Bhavita’s days are filled with balancing family life, managing a studio, and staying on top of new choreography and routines. “I live in a joint family, have kids, manage the house, and still keep up with the latest Zumba trends. It’s not an easy job, but I love every minute of it.”
For anyone considering becoming a Zumba instructor, Bhavita has a simple message: “Just go for it! It’s worth the effort, and it has the potential to transform your personality for the better. I can vouch for that.”
Zumba has given this ZIN so much more than just a career; it’s given her a sense of purpose, a new identity, and the joy of helping others find their confidence and happiness. “Zumba has taught me that fitness isn’t just about looking good, it’s about feeling good, inside and out.”
So, whether you're looking to get fit, release stress, or simply have a blast while dancing, remember: Zumba is more than just a workout. It’s a community, a lifestyle, and a mental wellness journey. And Bhavita will be there to lead the way.
Penned By Yeshasvi Pareek
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