Background: Dynamic exercises are known to elicit hemodynamic changes such as an increase in arterial blood pressure and heart rate. Zumba and ZOCA are part of a fast growing group of dance fitness programmes designed to provide a cardiovascular dynamic workout. Despite their growing popularity, very few studies have been done to provide knowledge regarding the hemodynamic changes associated with these exercises. Methods: Case study in which 27 females took part in either a Zumba or ZOCA class. Using digital blood pressure monitors, recordings of blood pressure and heart rate were taken, firstly, before commencement of the exercise, secondly, after 30 minutes after exercise and thirdly, at the end of the class.Results: Mean baseline blood pressures were 118 (SD = 14) mmHg and 77 (SD = 7) mmHg, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, respectively. After 30 minutes of dancing, mean systolic blood pressure increased to 130 (SD = 19) mmHg (p˂ 0.05) while diastolic blood pressureonly rose to an average of 80 (SD = 8) mmHg (p˃ 0.05). At the end of the class (after the cool down phase) mean systolic blood pressure reduced to 109 (SD = 13) mmHg (p˂0.05) while diastolic blood pressure reduced to 74(SD = 12) mmHg (p˂ 0.05). Conclusions: Zumba and ZOCA elicited significant hemodynamic changes that can be attributed to these exercises stimulating the cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms (e.g central command and exercise-pressor) sufficiently and hence resulting in autonomic adjustmentsthat were concurrent with effective dynamic exercise. Keywords: Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, Aerobic, Dance Exercise
Constituting practices, shaping markets: remaking healthy living through commercial promotion of blood pressure monitors and scales
