Cache Public Schools elementary special education students in grades two through six were introduced to the international dance concept called Zumba during a fitness session Friday at the Brickhouse Cardio Club. In addition to having fun, the students also learned various skills such as socialization and a form of exercise that contributes to a healthy lifestyle.

Melissa Pollastro, owner of the Brickhouse Cardio Club, said Zumba is a Latin-inspired fitness program that is popular worldwide which includes a wide variety of dances. "We have anything from Cumbia to Merengue to Hip Hop," she said.

Pollastro said Zumba is a great form of exercises for those interested in staying healthy and keeping their weight in check. "You have so much fun. Your endorphin levels exceed normal and get your blood flowing. Your heart gets going and everything in your body benefits from just moving," she said.

Directing the students are Cache special education teachers Wendy Borden and Darla Smith. Both teachers reported that the students learned a number of skills from the Zumba session and had a lot of fun in the process.

"It's an experience that a lot of our other kids don't get to participate in," Smith said. "They learned gross motor skills and leisure skills that will be with them as they grow up and develop a healthy lifestyle."

Read the Full Story...