Sega Zoomba: Dance to the Beat of Mauritius at La Pirogue
16th May 2023
Looking for a fun and authentic way to stay active during your vacation in Mauritius? Look no further than Sega Zoomba, available exclusively at La Pirogue through Sunlife’s ComeAlive Collection. This exuberant experience should be at the top of your list when you stay with us.
As you may know, Zumba is this popular dance-based aerobic exercise program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. But did you know that Beto Perez, the creator of Zumba, originally developed the program by accident? He forgot his traditional aerobics music for a class he was teaching and had to improvise with his personal music collection, which included Latin and international music.
The name of this sportive dance comes from a Colombian slang word that means "to move fast and have fun." This is all that we want, isn’t it?
However, you may not be familiar with the sega.
If there's one thing that truly embodies the lively and vibrant spirit of Mauritius, it's the sega dance and music. The sega is a rhythmic and joyful dance that originated in Africa and was brought to Mauritius by slaves in the 18th century. Today, it's a key element of the island's cultural heritage.
At its core, the sega is a music and dance form that features the use of percussion instruments like the ravanne, maravanne, and triangle. The music is typically accompanied by the sound of the sega drum, which sets the pace for the dancers and creates a hypnotic rhythm that is impossible to resist. It is sung in creole, the local dialect.
The dance itself is a sensual and fluid movement of the hips and feet, with the dancers swaying to the beat of the music. The dance is typically performed in a circle and barefoot, allowing the dancers to better connect with the ground and feel the rhythm of the music. The steps are simple and repetitive, making it easy for anyone to join in and experience the fun and excitement of this unique dance form.
But the sega is more than just a dance; it's a reflection of the Mauritian way of life. It embodies the island's diverse, colourful and multicultural history, with influences from Africa, Europe, and Asia blending together to create a truly unique cultural experience.
At La Pirogue, a devoted and engaged embracer of local life and the destination, we wanted to have a fitness routine that reflected the exuberant and colourful soul of Mauritius. Inspired by the Zumba-style aerobic exercises and the infectious rhythm of Sega, this imaginative mash-up takes the best of both worlds. Created exclusively for La Pirogue by renowned instructor Anouchka Zuel, this routine is practiced by day on the beach and poolside. Feel the rhythm of the music and the energy of the group as you dance your way to a healthier you. Get your groove on and make some sweaty new friends. Staying fit has never been so much fun.
Sega Zoomba isn’t just a workout – it’s a chance to dive deeper in Mauritius's local culture and traditions. You’ll be surrounded by coconut trees and immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of La Pirogue, making unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after you leave.
So why not try something new and dance your way to a healthier you with Sega Zoomba? Whether you’re a seasoned Zumba enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, this experience is not to be missed. Come and join us, and let’s move to the beat of Mauritius!