The beginning of the year brings everyone to the gym to fulfill those New Year's resolutions we all made to "get in shape" or "lose weight." While some might jump on the crazy train and go right into weightlifting or Crossfit, there are others who prefer to start off a little less intense.

One way to start working out on a less intense level is to take exercise classes. Whether you do pilates or kickboxing, yoga or butts, guts and thighs, any physical activity is better than none. My personal favorite option, though, is Zumba.

Zumba gives you a high-intensity workout while also being fun. Well, fun if you love to dance and act a little crazy. I recently took some friends to a Zumba class for their first time, and they were extremely hesitant. Their reactions throughout the experience were priceless and can be summed up as follows.

1. When you first walk in and don't want to do it.

2. When the instructor asks if it's your first time.

3. When the music starts and you realize how uncomfortable you actually are.

4. When you look around and notice there are others like you.

5. When you start to feel the music.

6. When you realize you are actually enjoying yourself, despite your initial concerns.

7. When you finally accept that you are a master of Zumba.