Zumba craze at San Felipe

Zumba Craze Takes Over San Felipe Pueblo

Pueblo Members Grow Healthier Through Popular Dance ExerciseThe Zumba exercise craze has taken over the San Felipe Pueblo, and tribal leaders said it's one of the most effective tools they have to fight diabetes.

Native American are twice as likely to be diagnosed with diabetes, and in some communities, one in two Native American adults has the disease. Zumba classes are changing the way Native communities battle diabetes.

"Diabetes is a major thing going on for all the pueblos, not just this one. People going on dialysis, amputations all of that. This helps with making sure that they keep staying healthy," physical activity specialist Rochelle Robertson said.

Almost every pueblo in New Mexico has Zumba. The Zumba class at San Felipe's Heart Start building is packed with 92 tribal members of all ages on most days.Comment:  For more on Indians and exercise, see CDC Books at NYC Con and Review of Losing It with Jillian.