Reasons for women’s approach and permanence in Zumba

Abstract Aim: This study aims to comprehend the reasons for women’s approach and permanence in Zumba. Method: In this descriptive study, we interviewed 20 female interviewees 31-66 years-old (M=46.14; SD=10,07). Inclusion criteria were: have been training Zumba for at least one year and with a minimum frequency of once a week. We excluded women who practice other activities simultaneously to Zumba. For data collection, we applied a semi-structured interview covering the following aspects: how they approached Zumba and the reasons why they kept training it. Data analysis was performed using non-aprioristic categories. Results: The interviewees reported approaching Zumba by friends, family, personal initiative, media, and medical advice. The permanence in the modality was related to therapeutic aspects, pleasure, sociability, being good for health, and engagement in a body practice. Conclusion: We concluded that women approach and keep training Zumba for reasons that surpass the physical benefits provided by body practices; rather, it is deemed as a useful and social practice.

摘要
研究目的：本研究旨在探究女性参与尊巴（Zumba）并坚持练习的动因。
研究方法：本研究为描述性研究，共访谈20名年龄介于31至66岁的女性受访者（平均年龄M=46.14，标准差SD=10.07）。纳入标准为：练习尊巴至少1年，且每周练习频率不低于1次；排除同时参与其他运动的女性。数据收集采用半结构化访谈，访谈内容涵盖两大维度：受访者接触尊巴的途径，以及坚持练习的原因。数据分析采用非预设分类法开展。
研究结果：受访者提及的接触尊巴的渠道包括亲友推荐、个人自发尝试、媒体宣传及医疗建议；坚持练习的动因则与疗愈效果、运动愉悦感、社交属性、健康益处及身体活动参与度密切相关。
研究结论：本研究表明，女性参与并坚持尊巴练习的动因远超身体锻炼带来的生理益处，尊巴被视为兼具实用价值与社交属性的活动。