Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association is pleased to be working with the Department of Health, Public Health Directorate, to fund Zumba fitness taster sessions; available to all staff employed by the Department of Health. Zumba Fitness® is a Latin-inspired dance-fitness program which combines world music with easy dance routines and a party-like atmosphere. This initiative aims to increase the health and wellbeing of the workforce by increasing their daily amount of physical activity, and to motivate them to continue with exercise in the many classes and activities that are available around the Island. The interest in the scheme has been overwhelming with almost 500 staff registering an interest in such an initiative. At the present time there are 2 sessions a week running, with 30 members. The Department of Health staff are able to take advantage of 5 free sessions after work to kick start their way into a healthier lifestyle. Michelle Poyzer, Senior Health Promotion Officer and licensed Zumba Fitness Instructor said, “Motivating people to exercise is much easier if they are enjoying what they do. The emphasis with Zumba fitness is to have fun and enjoy each session. It is exercise in disguise, and is not about learning dance routines that are technically perfect, but giving it a go, moving your body, burning calories and have a laugh at the same time. We have only run a few sessions, but already some of the group have joined further classes after trying it out.” Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association are delighted to be able to sponsor such an initiative, which encourages people to make a healthy change to their lifestyle. Theresa Grainger, Executive Officer for Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association said, “It has been well researched that being active and keeping a healthy weight can reduce your risk of developing some of the more common types of cancer. These free Zumba taster sessions are a great, fun way to support people to understand the benefits of exercise.” The sessions will finish in December, when 120 staff members will have been given the opportunity to try the new fitness craze for free. It is hoped, due to the very high interest, that the initiative will be repeated in the New Year for those registered on the waiting lists. To find a Zumba fitness class near you, log on to Zumba.com and click on “find a class” and put Isle of Man in the search engine. ENDS