Ten tips for creating easy-to-follow Zumba routines

Fitness instructors often have to be choreographers if they create their own routines. A fitness and dance instructor must be skilled at creating routines that are fun, rhythmic, effective, and easily learned by students. Zumba instructors must also incorporate nonverbal cues into the equation. Here are ten tips on how to choreograph an easy to follow Zumba routine.

1. Keep it simple. Use three to four steps and put them into a pattern. Repeat this pattern throughout the song.
2. Get creative when repeating the steps. For example, you can repeat a step with different arm movements. You can also do the same move but flip it as you do so that you’re facing four corners of the room.
3. Start your routine with an introduction by setting the tempo for the first eight to sixteen counts. This way the students can feel the rhythm and they can all start on the same beat.
4. Use an eight-digit wording. Choreograph your choreography so that you do the same movement for eight to sixteen counts, matching the phrasing to the music.
5. Repeat the chorus. Every time the chorus is played, try to do the exact same movement pattern. When the class hears the chorus they will know exactly what steps to take.
6. The movement matches the lyrics of the song. For example, if the music says to raise your hands, add that to the choreography.
7. Use clear transitions. Give students an indication that a new step is coming by using transitional steps such as walking before starting a new pattern.
8. Use a familiar song. When you use popular music, most people will be familiar with the rhythm and phrasing of the song, and therefore will be more comfortable learning your steps.
9. Use nonverbal cues to guide students. For example, use hand motions to direct students to go right, left, or stop.
10. Finish it off with fun strokes. Use music that ends in a note rather than a fade out. You can use these beats to finish off your routine with a strong finish!