Latin rhythms pulse across the dance hall of the Boys’ Secondary School in Mosta, where Ramon Farrugia leads a weekly Zumba dance fitness programme for nearly 30 participants seeking to swivel, pivot, and shake their way to keep fit thanks to the KMS Skolasport programme sponsored by Kellogg’s.

Ramon Farrugia, who is a qualified Zumba coach and has been conducting Zumba lessons with Skolasport for the past couple of years,  encourages his participants to move to the rhythm of the exotic music, be it salsa, meringue, or flamenco. “The music moves them and inspires them to work. Latin music tends to naturally make you feel happy and good. Having fun is the key factor in Zumba classes.”

Zumba, an aerobic dance programme set to South American beats, is one of the latest sporting vogues that has been regularly promoted in health clubs and fitness studios across Malta and Gozo.

“Aerobic exercise reduces health risks, keeps excess pounds at bay, strengthens the heart and boosts the mood and energy. During a Zumba class, the participants engage a wide range of muscles, and are often unaware that they are incorporating traditional fitness movements like squats and lunges into the choreographic piece. Zumba dance is enjoyed by everyone, easy to do, effective and energetic,” added Farrugia.

Kellogg’s, the world’s leading producer of breakfast cereal, sponsors KMS Skolasport and its initiatives to implement its philosophy and encourage the Maltese community to be physically active and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Apart from Maria Regina Boys’ Secondary School in Mosta, KMS Skolasport also holds Zumba sessions for adults (aged 17 and over) at Marsa Sports Complex and St Benedict College Boys’ Secondary School in Kirkop.

For further information one can contact the Programmes Section at the Kunsill Malti ghall-iSport Head Office on tel. 2203 6000 or via e-mail: programmes@sportmalta.org.mt or visit the KMS website: www.sportmalta.org.mt.