Total exercise noob here, Zumba and timing questions

Keiras_Mom

Okay, so I'm a total noob. Usually, I just walk on the treadmill, but DH and I decided to get a gym membership and I'm excited about trying out their classes. Tonight I'm going to Zumba for the first time, but it's pretty late. I usually go to bed around 8:30 or 9:00 as I'm an early riser, but this class goes until 8:30. So, here are my basic questions:

1) I will need to eat dinner with my family and we usually eat around 5:30 or 6:00 p.m. Anything special I need to know, or can I eat a regular dinner and then go to my Zumba class 2 hours later?

2) I have running shoes. Will that be okay in the class?

3) Do I need to eat anything before bed, like a protein shake, or can I go to bed with just my normal nightcap (yes, I intend to have my wine after the gym)? :drinker:

4) I fast or semi-fast every other day and tomorrow's a fasting day. That's why I'm more concerned about how/when/what to eat with exercising. If I like the class tonight, I may go to the same class tomorrow, but will have very little calories going into it. I'm usually fine exercising fasted, so I'm not really concerned about it, but wondered if anyone has advice.

Sorry for the total beginner questions, but I did a quick search and didn't find everything I needed all in one place. I'm also at work, so can't spend toooo much time searching. :blushing:

Thank you in advance!

kel7298

1. Just eat as usual and go to class.
2. Running shoes are fine, tho I think something with a smoother sole might work better for Zumba.
3. If you have the calories to spare, have a low fat, low calorie protein drink. Sure can't hurt. Studies show when you ingest a protein drink prior to bed, you have better recovery (120 cals/25 grams)
4. No advice, I have exercised fasted MANY times.

If Zumba isn't your cup of tea, don't give up. With so many choices out there, you are bound to find something you like.

Enjoy!!

Keiras_Mom

Thanks Kel, it was so fun! I had a great burn, and I'm sure I looked like a total dork, but that's okay.

Definitely will need to rethink the running shoes. They worked, but a smooth sole would have worked a LOT better.

I ate my regular dinner before going and it seemed to be just fine. I'm a bit hungrier than normal this morning, so maybe next time I will have a protein shake or bar or something after. We shall see.

kel7298

I think the protein drink is a great idea! Enjoy!