Dance Your Way to Fitness: ZUMBA in Kampala with Kathy Monty
I am still astounded by how many people have never heard of this calorie-burning treasure of a workout. Zumba is a dance fitness programme created by a Colombian dancer and choreographer.
Fitness challenges in Kampala
Adjusting to life in Kampala can bring about unexpected challenges, and for many, maintaining a fitness routine is a top concern. The days of accessible gyms, diverse fitness classes, and clean running trails have become a distant memory. In this series, we aim to navigate the fitness landscape of Kampala, uncovering the best workout options the city has to offer. Join us as we explore different fitness classes, bust excuses, and help you find enjoyable ways to stay fit in the heart of Uganda.
Unveiling ZUMBA: A Fitness Party with Latin Flair
Kampala's fitness scene kicks off with a bang, and my personal favourite is none other than Zumba. This dance fitness programme, born in the 1990s, has gained international acclaim, promising a calorie-burning party set to Latin-inspired and international dance beats.
ZUMBA's Dynamic Workouts: Conceived by Colombian dancer Alberto "Beto" Perez, ZUMBA transforms fitness into a dance-centric experience. Instructors, like our Kampala fitness luminary Kathy Monty, choreograph routines that seamlessly blend salsa, hip-hop, and more. The result? A cardio workout that feels like a dance party is a delightful way to break a sweat without even realising it.
Meet Kathy Monty: The Queen of ZUMBA in Kampala
ZUMBA Royalty at Kabira Country Club: Enter Kathy Monty, the driving force behind ZUMBA's vibrant community in Kampala. Her classes at Kabira Country Club in Bukoto are a testament to her magnetic instruction style. With classes three times a week, Kathy's ZUMBA sessions draw a diverse crowd, creating an energetic atmosphere that keeps everyone moving.
Class Details and Vibes: Priced at 15,000 UGX per class, Kathy's ZUMBA sessions run from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. on Monday, Thursday, and Friday nights. The ambiance is infectious, with the music kicking in ten minutes before class, allowing the early birds to stretch, do a few crunches, and secure the prime mirror spots.
Inclusive Fitness Fun: Women-Only ZUMBA
Ladies' Night: While a room filled with women in tight dance clothes might sound like a dream to some, Kathy's ZUMBA class is exclusively for women. Beyond the dance moves tailored to women, the class fosters an environment where women of all shapes and sizes feel comfortable and confident in their bodies.
Diverse Attendees: The ZUMBA congregation at Kabira Country Club mirrors the diversity of Kampala itself. Expats and Ugandan women, aged 16–55, come together, showcasing a mix of skill levels. Whether you're a ZUMBA pro or a first-timer, Kathy's class welcomes all, with the focus firmly on enjoying the dance-led fitness journey.
Preparation Tips and What to Expect
Dress Code and Essentials: Before joining the ZUMBA party, remember to wear shoes (no bare feet allowed), carry a water bottle, and bring a towel. These simple preparations ensure you're ready to dance your way to fitness without any hiccups.
Early Arrival for Prime Spots: For those eyeing the best mirror spots or eager to embrace the pre-class energy, arriving a few minutes early is advised. It's not just about the workout; it's about the whole experience, and Kathy's class offers a great one.
Mark Your Calendars: Kathy's ZUMBA Holiday
Summer Break Announcement: In the spirit of full disclosure, here's a bit of news to consider. Kathy Monty will be taking a month-long holiday this summer. Fear not, though; her classes will resume on July 22nd, so mark your calendars and get ready to hit the dance floor again.
A Personal Recommendation
In conclusion, Kathy Monty's ZUMBA class at Kabira Country Club is a fitness gem in the heart of Kampala. As a self-proclaimed fitness procrastinator, I can confidently say that ZUMBA with Kathy has transformed my approach to working out. My secret goal of mastering dance moves in Uganda is well on its way, thanks to this vibrant fitness community.
Stay tuned as we explore more fitness classes around Kampala in the coming weeks. I'm open to your suggestions and ideas, so feel free to reach out in the comments or at [email protected]. Let's dance our way to a healthier, happier lifestyle in Kampala!
Details:
- What: ZUMBA, led by Kathy Monty
- Location: Kabira Country Club: 63, Old Kira Road, Bukoto
- Phone: 0312 227222
- Times: Monday, Thursday, and and Friday nights from 6:15 to 7:15 pm
- Cost: 15,000 UGX
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