The YMCA has introduced a new, fast-paced dance class into its schedule every Tuesday and Thursday.

From 6 to 7 p.m., Christy Bozeman teaches and introduces the world of Zumba.

According to its Facebook page, Zumba Fitness is a Latin-inspired dance-fitness program that mixes international music and steps to fitness.

“Since its inception in 2001, the Zumba program has grown to become the world’s largest — and most successful — dance-fitness program with more than 12 million people of all shapes, sizes and ages taking weekly Zumba classes in over 110,000 locations across more than 125 countries,” according to the website.

Bozeman said the classes have been full from about 35 to 40 people in each.

“It is dance, and it is cardio aerobics,” Bozeman said. “There’s dance but there’s a lot of fitness in it too. You don’t have to be an experienced dancer or a good dancer. It’s easy to follow the moves.”

Trish McCullough, who works at the Court Square Café, attends the class and absolutely loves it.

“[Bozeman] is really, really good about instructing us,” McCullough said. “She’ll show us the movement and always say it’s important to keep moving. I love being in her class, and she has a good heart.”

Currently, the YMCA is in the process of setting up another class with another instructor, Bridgette Cook.

“Bridgette Cook will get licensed Sept. 11, and she’ll teach on Monday and Wednesday. We’re going to offer it four nights a week,” Bozeman said. “We’re actually looking to tear down the back wall and expand the room.”

Amanda Phillips, executive director of the YMCA, said it’s good for the health and fitness programs that are offered.

“We are targeting anybody,” Phillips said. “This is a very high-paced exercise. It just gives people another opportunity to work out and get their cardio workout in, and the music is great.”

Kayla Thomas, a dental assistant and hygienists at Dr. Robert Crosby’s office, said everyone is there to have fun.

“It’s non judgmental,” Thomas said. “You don’t feel like you’re being watched, and everyone is there to have fun. It makes you feel good, and it’s very uplifting and makes you feel accomplished.”

There are several different versions of Zumba, and Bozeman hopes to get trained in Zumba for senior citizens and Zumba for children.

“I recommend it to everyone,” McCullough said. “I’ll be in the kitchen, and I’ll be doing Zumba while preparing orders. I just tell everyone that they need to go. We’re a little dance family. I just know that I love it, and I can’t hardly wait for it every time.”