Zumba Gold class keeps growing

Clapping and laughter filled the air as seniors moved along to the music.

The Golden Hour Senior Center's Zumba Gold class continues to grow the longer it runs.

At first, a small group would faithfully show up each week, but now there can be anywhere from 15 to as many as 20 working out to music.

On Monday morning, one of the first songs played was the Village People's "YMCA" and the ladies in attendence were really moving to the beat.

They were swaying back and forth while mimicking the moves Zumba Gold instructor Jenny Barbuto was showing them. For those who had been to the class every week, the moves came pretty easily. Those who were new to the class did as many of the moves as they could.

Regular class attendee Dottie Krauss said all one has to do to participate in the class is sign the sign-up sheet. Krauss said one of the best things about Zumba Gold is it doesn't even feel like exercise. She always has such a fun time that she can't believe the class is over.

"You look at that clock and it's time to go," Krauss said.

Krauss said because the group continues to grow, Mary Grubb was sort of volunteered to be on stage with Barbuto to help lead the group. Grubb shows the ladies easier versions of the moves Barbuto does that way seniors can decide which ones will work best for them.

"It's wonderful," Even Wieburg said.

Wieburg said she has been attending the class off and on for the past four years.

Over those four years, she has had a knee surgery and back surgery, but she still comes back once she is healed.

"It works every part of your body," Wieburg said. "You're working, but you don't realize it because it's dancing."

One area Wieburg, who participates in the recreation center's water aerobics class, said is worked more than any other class she's in is her waist area.

"It takes the inches off of the waist," she said.

Wieburg not only enjoys the class, but those in it. She's really impressed with the ladies in the class that are in their 70s. She also thinks highly of Barbuto.

"She's good and that makes a difference," Wieburg said.