Around Maryland

But that doesn’t matter here, in the small auditorium of the New Hope United Methodist Church, where NeTasha Bastian hosts ZUMBA Around Brunswick, a twice weekly dance workout fitness class.

This is a judgment free zone.

“There are no rules and no wrong moves,” says Bastian. “Just put a smile on your face, feel the music and move your body!”

This is my third or fourth class. There are women of all ages and all levels, maybe 15 in all, in attendance. And, as I look around, I realize I’m not the only one missing the beat.

But we catch on quickly to the new routines and get in our groove with the old routines. There’s no instruction, per se, no walking through the routines step by step. Rather, we jump right in and follow along. The steps are repetitive and Bastian does an excellent job of providing direction.

 “I started teaching Zumba after taking a class for almost 2 years,” says Bastian. “I love how natural Latin movements feel and wanted to bring my own style to it. It’s one of the most rewarding experiences I've had and I’m glad to have the opportunity to teach such an amazing and energetic class!”

Bastian’s energy is contagious. I soon forget my lack of rhythm and just go with it. I enjoy moving to the music and hardly feel like I’m working out. Before I know it, our hour is up. I leave feeling energized and looking forward to the next time I’m able to drop in.

ZUMBA Around Brunswick is held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-8 p.m. for $5 a class. To stay in the know about upcoming classes, request to join the Facebook group. Or, to find a Zumba class near you, visit www.zumba.com and click Find A Class. Classes are held all around Maryland, some hosted by county Parks and Recreation.