In Zumba, there are only two rules.

The first one is just keep moving. If you don't know the moves, just do something else. If the moves are a bit hard for you to follow or do, adjust them to your level.

For example, there is one dance in my class where there are a whole bunch of jumps backward. Now, I'm not super coordinated, not yet at least, and I'm not good at these jumps. So instead of jumping backwards, I step back one foot at a time, doing my best to keep in rhythm with the music. As long as you are moving, you're doing just fine.

The second rule is never, ever, ever take another person's spot.

Never.

Seriously, not ever.

We're not really sure why this is, but regulars at a Zumba class almost always have a specific spot they are comfortable dancing in. It's their perfect spot where they have the right amount of room, can see the teacher well enough and won't feel self conscious.

Most new people start at in the back. They don't know the moves yet, and don't feel comfortable necessarily dancing in front. Some people stay there because they feel better in the back, which is perfectly fine.

Me? I take the front. This has nothing to do with being great at Zumba. Honestly, I think I look like an octopus who stuck a tentacle in a light socket most of the time. But I'm short and I prefer being able to see the instructor, the amazing Sarah Brewer, dancing so I can follow her easier and pick up the dances faster.

It takes about three classes before you really start to recognize some moves, and a few more before you might have a favorite or least favorite song. And don't assume just because everyone groans when the instructor announces a certain song, you won't like it. One fairly new dance, which is a toning dance done to Katy Perry's “Roar,” involves weights and a ton of squats. It often causes a series of groans from the class ... and I love it.

Keep your eyes peeled each week for updates on Zumba, fitness and nutrition. Next week I'll be writing about healthy meal options at local restaurants that stay open in the winter.