FAQS

FAQ Topics:
Lost in translation?

Checkout the ZIN Glossary for a breakdown of frequently used Zumba® terminology.

Zumba + Lift™

Are there any prerequisites to taking a Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program?
You must be a ZIN™ Member in good standing.
What is Zumba + Lift™?
Zumba + Lift™ is where rhythm meets results. Created by Beto Perez himself, this science-based, music-driven workout fuses the high-energy fun of the Zumba® program with the muscle-sculpting power of strength training. Help burn fat, build strength, and boost endurance with intervals of dancing and weightlifting moves set to an electrifying playlist. Sweat, sculpt, smile, repeat!
What is the structure of a Zumba + Lift™ class?
Zumba + Lift™ is a Varied Intensity Training (VIT) class, which always includes the following physical class components:
  • Cardio: Zumba® segment
  • Separate Strength Training segment: using dumbbells, elastic bands, and/or bodyweight resistance
  • Core Training within the individual cardio and strength segments
  • Dynamic Mobility and Stretching in the Warm-up and Cooldown segments
There are a variety of ways to structure a Zumba + Lift™ class based on your participants, but Beto’s preferred class is one that alternates one (1) strength segment and one (1) cardio Zumba® segment. This pattern is repeated for the entirety of the class. The number of segments included is adaptable based on class length, always starting with a proper Warm-up and Cooldown.
How is Zumba + Lift™ different from Zumba® Toning?
Zumba® Toning and Zumba + Lift™ both incorporate elements of strength training, but they differ significantly in focus, equipment, and structure.

Zumba® Toning uses light weights (1–3 lbs), often in the form of Toning Sticks, which you hold while dancing. The movements are designed to combine light resistance training with cardio to help tone muscles. Participants perform rhythmic, dance-based routines using the weights throughout the class to increase muscle endurance while maintaining continuous movement for light to moderate cardio.

Zumba + Lift™, on the other hand, is a higher-intensity format that alternates between traditional Zumba cardio and dedicated strength training segments. Participants use heavier dumbbells (5–15+ lbs, depending on the exercise and individual) and/or resistance bands. The goal is to build muscle strength, size, endurance, and power—while also enhancing cardiovascular health and supporting bone density. Importantly, dance and lifting segments are kept separate to maximize effectiveness and ensure safety.

Feature Zumba® Toning Zumba + Lift™
Primary Goal Muscle toning and sculpting Building muscle strength, power, endurance, and bone density
Weights Used Light dumbbells (1–3 lbs) / Toning Sticks Heavier dumbbells (5–15+ lbs) and/or resistance bands
Class Structure Dance and toning combined throughout Alternating segments: separate dance and lifting sections
Cardio Intensity Light to moderate Moderate to high (in dance sections)
Type of Movement Continuous dance with light weights Functional strength movements and separate Zumba dance sections
Focus on Muscle Development Endurance and tone Strength, size, power, control, and improved bone density
How is Zumba + Lift™ different from STRONG Nation and Zumba® Toning?
Click here to see comparison table.
Is music an important component of a Zumba + Lift™ class?
Music is the heart and driving force of every Zumba® class and it’s no different for Zumba + Lift™. Music is the all-encompassing motivational tool when it comes to movement, so it’s extremely important to have music which is both inspirational and appropriate for the moves you are doing.

In a Zumba + Lift™ class, we alternate segments of cardio using Zumba® moves, and strength training with weighted equipment and body weight. You will notice with the music used for this program, the sound, instruments, musical arrangement and BPM of each song are designed specifically for each Segment. They were chosen to accommodate the use of weights during strength and energize intensity during cardio, so you can get the most out of this program.
How long does the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program take to complete?
The Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program takes about 6 hours to complete and can be done at your own pace.
What formats are available for the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program?
The Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program is only available as on-demand e-Learning, so you can train at your own pace.
Will I receive a license to teach Zumba + Lift™ after completing the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Licensing Program?
Yes! You’ll receive a Certificate of Completion and a license to teach Zumba + Lift™ classes. The license will not expire as long as you remain a ZIN™ Member in good standing.
What do I receive upon registering and completing the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Licensing Program?
Upon registering, you will receive:

  • Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program e-Learning (~6 hrs) & Instructor Manual
  • Limited Time Bonus: NCSF Strength Training Foundations Certificate Course (MSRP $399) for Free (*Available in English only)
Upon completing the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Licensing Program, you will receive:

  • License to teach Zumba + Lift™ classes (as long as you remain a ZIN™ Member in good standing) + Certificate of Completion
  • My First Class Zumba +Lift™ #1 - Upper Body & Core (55-60 min music and routines)
  • Bonus: My First Class Zumba + Lift™ #2 - Lower Body (55-60 min music and routines) - Note that this is the same Zumba + Lift™ class that’s on the Zumba® App. We’re reshooting just for you, ZIN™ Members, and only you will receive the music to teach this class.
  • Badge on ZIN™ instructor page
  • Continuing education credits from top certifying organizations
  • Ability to post Zumba + Lift™ classes on Zumba.com
  • Printable and ClassBuzz™ marketing materials
  • Ongoing Music & Routines at no additional cost until 2028: You’ll receive 2 hot Zumba® songs remixed for the optimal Zumba + Lift™ class with their respective routines every month along with the content you receive for your Specialties (3rd week of the month) to keep your classes fresh.
*Starting in 2028, a small monthly content fee may be introduced, with advance notice and the option to opt in or out. Your license to teach & ability to post classes will remain active at no additional cost.
After I complete the On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program, do I need to purchase separate music or routines each month?
Currently, there won’t be an additional membership or content fee. Upon completion of the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program, you’ll receive 2 hot Zumba® songs remixed for the optimal Zumba + Lift™ class with their respective routines every month along with the content you receive for your Specialties at no additional charge until 2028.

Starting in 2028, a small monthly content fee may be introduced, with advance notice and the option to opt in or out. Your license to teach & ability to post classes will remain active at no additional cost.
When will I receive the ongoing music and routines for Zumba + Lift™?
Music + routines for Zumba + Lift™ will be delivered with Specialty content around the 23rd of each month.
What is the bonus NCSF Strength Training Foundations Certificate Course?
When you purchase the Zumba + Lift™ e-Learning, you’ll also receive the Strength Training Foundations Certificate Course provided by NCSF (the National Council on Strength & Fitness), a global leader in education for fitness professionals, free for a limited time vs. MSRP $269. You will receive a code to register for free after registering to the Zumba + Lift™ e-Learning.

About NCSF: The National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) is a leading global education and credentialing organization for exercise professionals. The NCSF is committed to serving the public through research, service, and advancement of those validly certified to serve recognized exercise professional roles. NCSF has a global presence, educating over 325,000 professionals in more than 160 countries. NCSF partners with top health clubs, industry organizations, and respected educational institutions. NCSF certifications are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and is a recognized awarding-body for professional education leading to credentialing.

Strength Training Foundations Course Overview: Developed using accredited standards, the Strength Training Foundations course provides a comprehensive understanding of human movement, biomechanics, and effective strength training techniques. It begins with functional anatomy and movement fundamentals, covering joint actions, movement planes, and static and dynamic posture to ensure proper biomechanics. Participants will then explore upper and lower body training, learning key muscle groups, resistance applications, and proper exercise execution while identifying common movement errors. The course also introduces combination exercises, integrating multiple muscle groups and movement patterns for functional strength and efficiency. Finally, participants will be able to apply the movement applications for warm-ups and cooldowns, accelerated adaptations in strength, balance and mobility, and injury prevention. By the end of the course, instructors will be equipped to teach safe, effective, and biomechanically sound strength training exercises
Is it mandatory to complete the NCSF Strength Training Foundations Certificate Course to obtain my Zumba + Lift™ license?
No, you do not need to complete the NCSF Strength Training Foundations Certificate Course to receive your Zumba + Lift™ license.
What if I already have a strength training certification and don’t wish to complete the NCSF Strength Training Foundations Certificate Course?
The NCSF course is optional. You’re still welcome to take it for free, or skip it if you already have a similar certificate.
Do I need any other certifications to receive my Zumba + Lift™ license and teach Zumba + Lift™ classes?
Once you complete the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program, you’ll receive your official license to teach Zumba + Lift™ classes—no additional certifications are required. However, because Zumba + Lift™ involves higher exertion and strength-focused movements, we strongly recommend pursuing additional fitness education to ensure safe and effective class delivery. To support you, we’ve partnered with NCSF, a leading certifying organization, to offer ZIN™ Members free access to their Strength Training Foundations Certificate Course (a $269 value) for a limited time for added knowledge and confidence in strength training.
Do I receive any certification credits for completing the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program?
Yes. Upon completion, you’ll be eligible for these Continuing Education Credits/Units, which may count toward your fitness certifications: ACE 0.8 CECs, Canfitpro 4 CECs, AusActive 5 CECs, EMD 8 CPDs, NASM/AFAA 0.6 CEUs, NZ REPS Pending.
What formats am I able to teach when I complete the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program?
You can teach your Zumba + Lift™ classes in-person, via livestream on a variety of platforms (ensure they don’t leave recording after), or on-demand only via the Zumba.com video on-demand tool.
Can I set my own hours and rates for my Zumba + Lift™ classes?
Yes, your Zumba + Lift™ license as a ZIN™ Member gives you the freedom to set your own schedule, rates, terms and agreements.
How long do I have to complete the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program?
You will be able to complete the program for as long as you remain a ZIN™ Member in good standing. Take it in one day, or break it up over time - you choose! For a better success rate - we recommend completing it within 1 to 5 sessions, over consecutive days.
What happens if I start the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program, but don't complete it?
You will continue to have access to the course as long as you are a ZIN™ Member in good standing, but you will not receive the license to teach or ongoing support until you complete it.
As a Zumba + Lift™ Instructor, do I have to use the content provided by the Home Office to teach the class?
No, you can use your music and routines of choice as long as you follow the class structure options provided in the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program and manual.
Is the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program available globally? What languages is it available in?
The Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program is available globally and in English, German and Spanish.
Do I need any special equipment or supplies to take the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program?
To participate in the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program, you must have access to a computer with internet access. You should also have some dumbbells (weighing between 5-15+ lbs). A mat is optional.
Can I view the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program content on my mobile phone or tablet?
For best experience, we recommend completing the on-demand program on a desktop computer.
Will I be able to replay the Zumba + Lift™ On-Demand Instructor Licensing Program upon completion?
Yes, you will be able to replay it via the e-Learning section on ZIN™ Home. You will also have access to both My First Classes on ZIN™ Now and ZIN™ Play.
What weights are used in a Zumba + Lift™ class?
Zumba + Lift™ incorporates heavier dumbbells (5-15+ lbs, depending on the participant) and bands.
What happens with my Zumba + Lift™ license if I cancel my ZIN™ Membership?
You must be a ZIN™ Member in good standing to maintain an active Zumba + Lift™ teaching license. You will lose your license to teach if you are no longer a ZIN™ Member in good standing.
Is the bonus My First Class Zumba + Lift™ #2 the same as the class on the Zumba® App?
The routines and music for My First Class Zumba + Lift™ #2 are the same as the Zumba + Lift™ class that’s on the Zumba® App. We shot it again just for you, ZIN™ Members, and only you will receive the music to teach this class.
Have more questions?
Contact us