After two weeks of observing 8 sessions, a purposive sample of 10 Zumba participants will be interviewed using a semi-qualitative format. Participants’ demographic, physical, and cultural characteristics are being recorded through a standardized questionnaire. The proposed study would follow in the rich tradition of Cultural Studies, such as Clifford Geertz’s (1973) landmark essay, “Deep Play: Notes on the Balinese Cockfight.” I am using questionnaires, observational analyses, and structured interviews to document group interactions during Zumba classes. I am examining how Zumba participants communicate interculturally. The cultural differences that are ingrained into our society seem to disappear through the joy of dancing together on Latin music. Participants do not seem to care about race, age, language, nationality, intellect, or physical appearance. However, many physical activities and dance classes can justifiably be said to improve physical and psychological health. “The psychology of Zumba is a heady cocktail of social proof, exercise induced endorphins and self-induced blindness” (Van Edwards, 2013). Research also showed that Zumba benefits psychological health among female hospital employees (Barene et al., 2014). Research of Zumba classes has shown that the health benefits of Zumba classes abound, with substantial measurable improvements in cardiovascular, cardiorespiratory, strength, and flexibility measures in individuals with overweight or diabetes mellitus type-2 (Krishnan et al, 2015).
The main goal of my project is to examine different methods of communication, both verbal and nonverbal-as well as other signifiers-among Zumba participants of different nationalities, language, race, and culture.
It is one of the most popular aerobic types of exercise in the gyms worldwide (Luettgen et al., 2012). Zumba is a fitness exercise influenced by Latin rhythm dance such as Rumba, Merengue, and Salsa.