The variety types of Zumba exercise sparks joy and community spirit

By Chong Wan Chi

MAIN CAMPUS, 22 May - The Gabungan Anak Pulau Pinang (GAPP) has effectively organized the Zumba exercise programme at Dataran Bintang, USM, which attracted nearly 70 enthusiastic participants—and brought together students from a variety of faculties to participate in an exhilarating fitness experience. The programme successfully cultivated a sense of community among students and staff and promoted physical fitness. 

The participants are following the music to do the Zumba exercise. Photo Chong Wan Chi

According to the President of GAPP, Aiman Fadzly, Educational Studies, 2 said that this programme was fully supported and taught by the Adviser of GAPP, Pn Norazizah Binti Rusli, who is expert and devoted to Zumba.

The participant, Siti Nurul Atiqah, Mathematical Sciences 1, said the sessions were a refreshing diversion from her academic routines, enhancing their overall mental and physical health.

The Project Director of the GAPP Zumba exercise programme, Nur Alia Farisha, said that this programme highlighted various Zumba types, such as Aqua Zumba, Zumba Toning, and Zumba Fitness. Zumba Fitness offered participants high-energy dance exercises that maintained their engagement and vitality. 

“Zumba Toning introduced a distinctive element to the conventional dance routines by utilizing lightweight toning poles to incorporate strength training. The low-impact yet exhilarating exercises in the pool that Aqua Zumba offers remain a popular alternative for future programmes, despite the fact that it was not included in this session. This wide variety of activities was designed to accommodate a variety of fitness levels and preferences, thereby guaranteeing that all individuals could participate and derive pleasure,” she continued.

According to the project director, maintaining participant motivation and attendance is one of the most significant challenges. They consistently introduce novel themes, music, and protocols to ensure the sessions remain engaging and stimulating. 

“The acquisition of financing for venue rentals, instructor fees, marketing, and apparatus, as well as budget constraints, present substantial obstacles. In order to surmount these challenges and guarantee the program’s sustainability and success, it is essential to implement effective communication and planning,” she said.

The President of GAPP emphasized that Gabungan Anak Pulau Pinang (GAPP) is a student organization composed of pupils from the University of Sains Malaysia (USM) in Penang. The association is renowned for actively organizing various programmes at USM, such as the traditional Boria dance, which is a signature element of GAPP’s events.