People have been trying to make working out fun since before the 80s, when neon leotards and aerobicizing was the hot way to stay in shape.

There is now a less awkward, albeit less colorful, way to workout and it is actually fun to the point that you don't think you are working out.

Zumba surfaced a few years ago but just recently became the greatest thing since sliced bread. It is a combination of Latin dance, hip hop and aerobics. Even if you don't think you can dance, Zumba will change your mind.

I registered for my first 5k race today and I want to be in top shape for it so I laid out a rigours training schedule involving cross training, running and weight training. It has been one day into my training routine and I miss Zumba. Because the classes are at times that make it hard for me to attend, I am actually thinking about investing in a Zumba video tape. If I can find a tape, that will make my routine so much better.

It is great for de-stressing and it supposedly helps burn around 500 calories in one session. There goes lunch. Zumba also tricks you into thinking you're having fun. You'll be doing squats and lunges while you think you are dancing.

If you are staring at that bathing suit in the Victoria's Secret catalog but don't think that you'll be swimsuit ready in time for summer and don't want to run on the still snow-covered roads, then try Zumba.

Prices tend to be higher than gym memberships and it is geared toward women but I think that it is worth the extra bucks and I know guys who have wiggled their hips in a Zumba class or two.

Jump on the Zumba bandwagon before the this trend goes the way of aerobacizing.