Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska -- Strong by Zumba is the newest high-intensity interval training group-exercise class available through JBER Fitness. Like all classes, it is free for anyone 16 years older with base access.
“Strong is a mix of martial arts, cardio, balance, and stability, but unlike every other Zumba class, not dancing,” said Jessica Pisano, JBER Fitness lead group-exercise instructor. “It is much more structured and a well-rounded workout.”
Unlike other workout programs that create moves around the music, Jessica continued, Strong modifies the music to fit into the strict workout regimen.
Strong was first introduced to the market June 2016 and Zumba led the first initial training in November. JBER became the one of the first gyms in Alaska to teach this class in January 2017.
From January to March, Strong is taught every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Buckner Physical Fitness Center and every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the Elmendorf Fitness Center by official trainers.
JBER Fitness also teaches other Zumba variations such as toning, which involving light weights for an upper-body focused workout, and step, which utilizes a single riser for a lower-body focused workout.
“They are all great programs,” Jessica said. “My body feels like I worked out for an hour, but when you’re having fun doing it, time passes by so quickly.”
Participants of the program benefit from more than just the exercise; there is camaraderie as well.
“I’ve been doing Zumba since March, about three to five times a week,” said Josh Biegel, U.S. Army systems administrator. “I like it because I have so much fun working out with others.”
He lost 55 pounds since then and recommends giving a class at least two weeks before deciding to stay or leave. In his Zumba class specifically, they have approximately 15 regulars.
“The beauty of a group exercise is that we all motivate each other and keep others honest to the workout,” Jessica said. “Friendly and healthy competition only helps push others during a workout.”