Two hundred nine Zumba dancers packed into State Gym to bust a move and break a sweat Monday evening.

The crowd was diverse and the atmosphere upbeat as amateurs and experts danced side by side, as perspiration ran down their foreheads.

“People love to dance, and being around a lot of other people makes it even more fun,” said Lucy O’Connor, group fitness instructor and junior in world languages and cultures.

As the music blared and hips swayed, participants’ insecurities vanished and the joy in fitness was found.

“Being surrounding by such a large group makes it more comfortable,” said Merri Johns, group fitness instructor and senior in kinesiology and health. “Everyone is supportive of each other and here to enjoy fitness.”

Participants were enthused with the turnout and eagerly awaiting their next Zumba class.

“This massive Zumba class was fantastic,” said Guang Han, graduate student in agricultural education and studies. “I am happy I got to be part of it.”

Not only did the participants make Jam the Gym a success but also the group fitness staff attended in force.

“We’ve been advertising and really working to implement this event for about three weeks,” said Ally Lawrence, intern for the group fitness program at State Gym and a sophomore in kinesiology and health.

Aside from the planning, the positive turnout for the event correlated with the popularity of the class.

“Zumba is the most popular group fitness class at State Gym, and not only is it a good time, but it is also a great workout,” said Kara Herbert, fitness coordinator for the event.

To improve future Jam the Gym classes, a survey was given to participants along with group fitness class schedules.

“The purpose of this event and future events held at State Gym is to promote a healthy lifestyle,” said Chase Lohnes, State Gym employee and junior in interdisciplinary studies. “It is important to raise awareness about the significance of fitness.”