General

How do I purchase Zumba DVDs?

Currently, Guthy-Renker is the company in charge of all our DVD sales. For information on the Zumba Fitness DVD set, please visit zumbafitness.com or call 1-800-964-914.

How do I find a Zumba Instructor?

In order to find a Zumba Instructor, please click on "Find a Class" in the main navigation above, or visit go directly to our Class Locator.

How to become a ZIN member?

When you first attend a Zumba Workshop you have the opportunity to sign up for ZIN on site. If for some reason you were not able to do so, you can join ZIN by logging in to your instructor account and clicking on "Join ZIN".

How long is a Zumba certificate valid for?

A Zumba certificate is valid for one year. As with any reputable occupation, a professional in any industry is expected to keep up-to-date on industry knowledge and to stay fresh on industry skills and trade. Zumba wants its instructors to be the best in the industry and maintain a high level of expertise and proficiency. To sustain a highly-regarded status for instructors, Zumba provides numerous opportunities for continuing education, and therefore upholds an annual renewal requirement to assist Zumba instructors in updating and refreshing their skills. There are a number of ways to keep your skills and knowledge refreshed and up-to-date, thereby renewing your certificate:

Become a ZIN member. ZIN members receive new choreography and music every other month as well as industry newsletters, website publicity, product discounts, marketing materials, discounted liability insurance, and much more. ZIN members generally find that the $30 monthly membership multiplies itself in generated revenue, helping them to build a profitable business. We now offer Zumba Gold (for the active older adult).

Take any Zumba approved workshop and your Zumba instructor status is renewed.

Retake the Zumba Basic workshop. Zumba continues to upgrade the training programs from year to year as new industry standards become available.

Shop

How do I return my order?

If you wish to return your order, please refer to our return policy. Your authorization return code is "RT-######", where "######" represents your order ID.

Where can I find my order ID?

Your order ID can be found in your email confirmation, and on the invoice that is shipped with your order. All order ID's are 6 characters long, and consist of 1 letter and 5 numbers. For example, if your order number is "ZUMB-A14021", your order ID would be "A14021".

Can I make an exchange?

Sometimes you might change your mind about an item, so we put into place a simple exchange policy. Your authorization code is "EX-######", where "######" represents the 6 characters of your order ID.

Workshops

How do I find a workshop in my area?

The Zumba Workshops that have been officially scheduled are posted on our Workshops section. If you don't find any Zumba Workshops currently scheduled in your area, keep checking as we update our website constantly. If you know of a facility that might be interested in hosting a Zumba Workshop, ask the potential host go to contact us.

How do I become a Zumba Instructor?

The first step to becoming a Zumba Instructor is to attend one of the Zumba Workshops. To see the dates and locations of upcoming Zumba Workshops you can visit our Workshops page. There are no pre-requisites to become a Zumba Instructor, although a fitness or dance background is always a plus! Anybody 18 years or older may attend a Zumba Workshop. Certain allowances are made for younger participants.

Once you have taken the one-day or two-day Zumba Basic Workshop you are allowed to teach Zumba, use the "Zumba" name in your class title, and call yourself a Zumba Instructor. Any other use of the Zumba name or logo must be approved by the Zumba Corporate office. Zumba Fitness is a registered trademark of Zumba Fitness, LLC, which holds copyright ownership on all Zumba related material and use of name and logo. Anyone who teaches Zumba without having a current Certificate of Completion would be in violation of trademark and copyright laws.

After the Zumba Workshop, you can start teaching whenever you feel ready. Every Zumba Instructor is an independent contractor, so you will set up your own schedule, rates, terms, agreements, etc. with whichever facilities you choose. The Zumba Workshop will teach you about Zumba and how to teach and create Zumba routines for a Zumba Class. The movement section and the included DVDs and music CD provide plenty of ideas to get you started. If you are not an experienced instructor, you may want to contact a local Zumba Instructor or a local group exercise coordinator for help in teaching in a group setting. Zumba's continuing education program provides a ZIN Newsletter, marketing materials, choreography, music, and a network of instructors which will also provide an enormous amount of help to get started. Joining this program is optional.

Some fitness facilities require their instructors to have a general group exercise certification. Zumba is considered a specialty class, just as Pilates or Yoga are specialty areas. Ask your local fitness facility what requirements they may have in order for you to teach at their facility. You can always obtain a Zumba certificate first and then obtain a general certification. Some facilities may allow you to start teaching Zumba as long as you have evidence of a general certification in the works. (Consult your local facility.) For example, two highly recognized certifications are ACE and AFAA. See acefitness.org or afaa.com.

What is Zumba Basic?

The Zumba Basic Workshop addresses and prepares you to teach Zumba to the general exercising population. It is a high-energy workshop where you learn the basic steps of Zumba in order to put together a Zumba Class. This course provides multiple variations of the different steps, giving the instructor a wide range of choices of movements to include in their classes. It is an intense, full day of movement and learning.

What is Zumba Gold?

The Zumba Gold training is designed for any instructor who wishes to teach Zumba to the active adult population or the true beginner (de-conditioned) participant. Zumba has specifically tailored this course based on current research to address today's growing senior population. Teaching exercise classes to the more mature body requires specific attention to such things as balance issues as well as hip, shoulder, and joint considerations. Therefore, Zumba Gold addresses the anatomical, physiological, and psychological needs of the aging adult and tailors the basic steps for this population. You will learn the dances (and be given music for those dances), as well as transitions, and teaching techniques to make a Zumba Gold class safe, effective and fun! It also includes a Zumba Chair workout. With a Zumba Gold certificate, you can only teach Zumba Gold classes.

How do I sign up for a workshop?

In order to sign up for an instructor training workshop, you must visit the workshop section on our website, www.zumba.com, and locate the workshop of choice. After doing so, fill out the form with your billing and participant information as well as your credit card information. (Note: If you do not have a promotional code, please leave it blank.)

The username and password you choose will be what you will use to log onto the website. If you are having trouble signing up or have special circumstances, please call the Zumba Office or the Zumba Educational Specialist of that workshop.

Also, be very careful in typing your email address. This is the address to which your receipt and all correspondences will be sent. As well, your participant name will appear on your certificate exactly as you type it.

After I have signed up for a workshop, then what?

After submitting your registration, you will receive an e-mail confirming that the registration is complete. Expect a second e-mail about a week before the workshop from the Zumba Educational Specialist (ZES). He or She will explain any logistical details such as parking, lunch, schedule, etc.

What does it mean to be a Zumba Instructor? Why do I need to attend a Zumba Instructor Training?

Once you have taken the one-day or two-day Zumba Basic Steps Instructor Training, or the Zumba Gold Workshop, you are allowed to teach Zumba, use the "Zumba" name in your class title, and call yourself a Zumba Instructor. If you completed a Zumba Gold workshop, you can only teach Zumba Gold. This certificate of completion is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Any other use of the Zumba name or logo must be approved by the Zumba Corporate Office. Zumba Fitness is a registered trademark of Zumba Fitness, LLC, which holds copyright ownership on all Zumba related material and use of the name and logo. Anyone who teaches Zumba without having a current Certificate of Completion would be in violation of trademark and copyright laws.

What is the difference between the one-day and the two-day Zumba workshops?

Zumba's workshop was originally a Two-Day Workshop generally held in Miami. The workshop required this amount of time because of the amount of information given. However, in order to provide and option "closer to home" and more affordable in terms of time and cost, Zumba created the One-Day Workshop option which would be offered in major cities across the country and abroad. Both workshops provide a Certificate of Completion, granting you Zumba Instructor status. Both workshops cover the same material.

The following explains the differences between the two workshops:

• Most two-day workshops are presented by Beto, the creator of Zumba. There is nothing like spending a weekend with Beto! Because of his fame, many wish to take advantage of his talent and expertise and wish to spend more than 1-day with him. He shares much more of his personal energy, passion, and dances with the group during a two-day course.
• The one-day workshops are conducted by one of our highly trained and prestigious ZES (Zumba Educational Specialist).
• The two-day workshop offers 7.5 AFAA CEU's, but no ACE CECs
• The one-day workshop offers 5.5 AFAA CEU's and most offer 0.7 ACE CEC's (each individual workshop lists the CECs granted)

Are there any pre-requisites?

There are no pre-requisites for taking the Zumba Basic or Zumba Gold workshop. However, it is helpful if you have taken a Zumba class before or if you have previous experience in teaching group exercise classes. Many of our well-known and successful Zumba instructors were former students who did not have any teaching experience. We do always have a percentage of participants who have never taken a Zumba class. While it may take them longer to practice and get started, many of them have been equally as successful.

Why is the Zumba Certificate of Completion only good for one year?

As with any reputable occupation, a professional in any industry is expected to be up- to-date on industry knowledge, skills, and trade. Zumba wants its instructor to be the best in the industry and maintain a high level of expertise and proficiency. To sustain a highly-regarded status for instructors, Zumba provides numerous opportunities for continuing education and therefore requires each instructor to renew their certificate annually.

How do I renew my Certificate of Completion after one year?

There are a number of ways to keep your skills and knowledge refreshed and up-to-date, thereby renewing your certificate:

1. Become a ZIN Member: Zumba Fitness offers an extensive continuing education program to all Zumba Instructors, known as the Zumba Instructor Network (ZIN). ZIN members are constantly receiving new choreography and music, in which he or she can use to change and update the routines in his or her class. For more information on ZIN and its benefits, see question #14. ZIN members in good standing are always considered "Current Zumba Instructors."
2. Take another workshop: Completing another workshop within 12 months keeps your instructor status current. For example, an instructor who wants to specialize and/or continue to hone their dancing skills can take a specialty workshops such as Zumba Gold, Basic Steps Level 2, Zumba Toning, and in 2009, Zumba Kids.
3. Retake the Level 1 workshop: Every Zumba Educational Specialist provides new and different insight into the world of Zumba. By retaking the Zumba Basic workshop, you will not only renew your certificate but you will be introduced to the latest moves, music, and trends.

What should I bring or wear?

Generally you should bring a towel, water, a sweatshirt, a healthy snack and lunch. The type of shoe is key for easy flowing movement, so you should wear good supportive shoes such as cross-trainers, or dance-specific sneakers. Wear shoes that do not have a lot of tread at the bottom and are meant for medial/lateral/twisting motion. Although we provide an instructor's manual, bring a notebook and a pen to take additional notes.

Is there a written or practical exam included in this workshop? Can you "fail" the workshop?

There is no written or formal practical exam in this workshop. However, there is a great deal of movement involved and participants will lead practical movements. The ZES will be constantly aware of every participant's abilities, but no one is expected to be an expert or achieve mastery in a day. Yet, if there is anyone having a great deal of difficulty, the ZES will work to assist that person. If major difficulties persist, in the end, both the ZES and the participant, together, will decide if Zumba is a good choice for him or her.

What happens after the workshop? When can I start teaching?

After completing the workshop, you can begin teaching whenever you feel comfortable and ready. Every instructor is an independent contractor, which allows the freedom to set up your own schedule, rates, terms, agreements, etc. at any facility you choose. Although the workshop teaches you how tot each and create routines for a Zumba class, you may need to practice on your own and take time to choose the right selection of music. You may consider borrowing from the DVD set and original soundtrack given at the workshop, just to get you started.

Many of our instructors get together to help each other out, and the instructor message boards are a great way to seek help from experienced instructors.

Some fitness facilities require their instructors to have a general group exercise certification. Zumba is considered a specialty certificate, just like Pilates or Yoga. Ask your local fitness facility what requirements they may have in order for you to teach at their facility. You can always obtain a Zumba certificate first and then obtain a general certification. Some facilities may allow you to start teaching Zumba as long as you have evidence of a general certification in the works. Two highly recognized certifications are ACE and AFAA. (See www.acefitness.org or www.afaa.com)

I have a conflict and must leave early. Can I still get my Certificate of Completion and/or AFAA/ACE credits if I leave early?

If you have a conflict, we highly recommend that you take a workshop at another time when you are able to stay for the entire duration. Zumba instructors are highly regarded and we want to be sure to provide you the utmost level of comfort and training before you leave. There is a great deal of information packed into the workshop. If you leave early, you may not feel completely prepared. A ZES may decide if you can leave up to 30 minutes early, but that would be on a case-by-case basis, depending on the individual's demonstrated proficiency.

Is there a demand for Zumba Instructors?

Yes! Not only is there a demand, but you can easily create a demand. Many Zumba Instructors created the demand in their area due to the fact that there were not many instructors, but the buzz spread and these instructors become high in demand.

May I video tape or take pictures at the workshop?

Still image cameras are allowed. Video or DVD motion pictures are not allowed.

What is ZIN?

ZIN is the Zumba Instructor Website, which was created in response to the demand created by Zumba instructors. Instructors asked for follow-up guidance, ideas, music, moves, marketing tips, and general support. Zumba responded by creating ZIN and the reaction has been overwhelming! With the use of new choreography DVD's and Music CD's, marketing materials, discounts on Zumbagear and Zumba workshops, and newsletters, instructors are thrilled and feel fully prepared! The ZES will explain further about this network at the Instructor Training Workshop.

What if I sign up and then cannot make the workshop?

If you are unable to make this workshop, you can transfer your fees toward another workshop. As of June 15, 2008, there will be a $15 processing fee for each transfer. Transfers are good for up to one year. If you cancel 3 weeks prior to the workshop, you can receive a full refund. If you cancel within 3 weeks of the workshop date, you can, upon request, receive a refund minus a $50 processing fee.

What is the difference between a Zumba Basic and a Zumba Gold Workshop?

The Zumba BASIC workshop addresses and prepares you to teach Zumba to the general exercising population. It is a high-energy workshop where you learn the basic steps of Zumba in order to put together a Zumba class. This course provides multiple variations of the different steps, giving the instructor a wide range of choices of movements to include in his/her class. It is an intense, full day of movement and learning.

The Zumba Gold training is designed for any instructor who wishes to teach the active adult population or the true beginner (deconditioned) participant. Zumba has specifically tailored this course based on current research to address today's growing senior population. Teaching exercise classes to the more mature body requires specific attention to such things as balance issues as well as hip, shoulder, and joint considerations. Therefore, Zumba Gold addresses the anatomical, physiological, and psychological needs of the aging adult and tailors the basic steps for this population. You will learn the dances (and be given music for those dances), as well as transitions and teaching techniques to make a Zumba Gold class safe, effective, and fun! It also includes a Zumba Chair Workout.

Is there an age requirement?

Yes. A participant must be:

• 18 years or older to attend a Basic Workshop on their own
• 18 years or older to attend a GOLD Workshop on their own

A 16 or 17 year old may attend a BASIC workshop on their own, but they must have a letter from their parent, and both the parent and the child must sign the liability form at the workshop. If you are 16 or 17, then contact the trainer for your workshop to arrange the letter from your parent and the liability form.

ZIN

Sharing ZIN tools

The ZIN policy states that the membership is strictly for the Zumba Instructor him/herself. Part of the benefits of being a ZIN member is the choreography and music sets that you receive in the mail, therefore sharing these benefits is against the policy of ZIN.

You cannot make copies of the ZIN songs. The music industry is very strict about copyright laws. Currently the RIAA is going after individuals for breach in copyright. So please, protect yourself 100% and do not make copies of the CDs of DVDs. We wouldn't want anything to happen to you, as a valued part of our Zumba family. Our ZIN CDs are not for sale to the public because we want it to be an exclusive benefit just for you, our ZIN member, because you deserve it! If we made the songs "open to the public," it would take away your exclusive status as a ZIN member.

However, there are two CD's that you may purchase at wholesale and sell to your students at retail price. To order these CD's, log in to your account, and then visit our shop page.

How do I cancel my ZIN membership?

We appreciate your loyalty to ZIN in the past, and are very sorry to hear that you will be leaving the ZIN program.

Please note that the ZIN membership is for a minimum of 6 months. If the membership is cancelled prior to completing the minimum, there is a $10 penalty fee for each of the remaining months. All materials are shipped out on the 1st of the month. Therefore you will be charged for the current month and you will receive the materials for the current month. Your cancellation will be effective on the last week of the month in which the Zumba office received your cancellation request.

Please download the ZIN Membership Cancellation form. Please complete the form and fax it to 1-305-777-8858. At this time we do not accept cancellation forms by email.

Can I request past ZIN Volumes or Mega Mix CD's?

The ZIN Membership is like any other subscription. As a new member you will only receive what is being sent out from the moment you register and any materials thereafter. The only past ZIN Volumes or Mega Mix CDs that we have available are listed under the shop section.

Other

What are the best shoes for Zumba?

Zumba recommends any shoe that has good cushion support, medial-lateral support (for side to side movements) and low-traction rubber (for easy sliding and turning). There are a number of great fitness shoes and dance sneakers that fit this description. Usually court shoes or "aerobic" shoes are good for medial-lateral and pivoting movements. Running shoes are not ideal due to the heavy tread on the bottom of the shoes and because running shoes are designed more for forward movement.

The best shoe for you is the shoe that fits your foot well. Zumba cannot recommend one single shoe to all people, because everyone's feet, body type, and dancing styles are different. It is important for you to try different shoes to find the best one for you.

How many calories can I burn during a Zumba Class?

It is very difficult to estimate the number of calories burned during a Zumba Class, because it depends on you, your body type, your body composition, the intensity, and the range of motion that you use with each workout. For example in one Zumba class, one participant could burn 500 calories, while another participant burns 1000 calories. We recommend monitoring how you feel and compare it to other activities that you do that have "calories burned" associated with it and then estimate accordingly.

Does Zumba provide liability insurance waivers?

Zumba does not provide liability insurance waivers. Every Zumba Instructor is an independent contractor who decides his/her rates, schedule, terms & agreements, etc. Please refer to your insurance company, attorney or the facility where you teach your classes for more assistance.