Rhythm and Reach Lesson Plan Teacher Guide Rhythm and Reach
Video-Led Chair Zumba Facilitation Guide
Workout Source
10-Min Live Warmup +
Total Time
~45 Minutes
Tech Needs
Screen + Audio
Social Focus
Group Energy
1
Live Warm-Up (10 Minutes)
Lead these moves before starting the video to build connection and prepare joints.
0-4 Mins: Gentle Flow
Neck rolls: Look L/R, ear to shoulder.
Shoulder circles: Small to large.
Wrist/Ankle rolls: "Paint the air."
Finger stretches: Open/close fists.
4-7 Mins: Core & Spine
Torso twists: Hands on knees.
Seated Side bends: Reach for the floor.
Cat-Cow: Round and arch the back.
Scapular squeezes: Open the chest.
7-10 Mins: Rhythm Build
Seated march: Start low, build to high knees.
Arm circles: Forward and back while marching.
Heel digs: Alternate heels out with a clap.
Double taps: Side-to-side toe taps.
2
Follow-Along Video
Transition to the screen. Your role is now mirroring and encouragement.
Facilitator Tip: Since you've done a thorough warmup, encourage the group to hit the ground running with the video's first track!
Full Session Timeline
Time Activity Facilitator Focus 0:00 - 0:03 Intro & Safety "Let's move together!" 0:03 - 0:13 Live Warmup Manual instruction. Focus on range of motion. 0:13 - 0:43 Video Routine Mirror the screen. High energy. 0:43 - 0:48 Social Spark Conversation cards & celebration.
Safety Scan
With a longer 10-minute warmup, ensure participants take small sips of water before starting the 30-minute video. This ensures they don't get too dehydrated during the peak of the workout.
Video Groove Guide Reference Video Groove Guide
30-Minute Routine Cheat Sheet
Selected Workout
30-Minute Chair Zumba (Follow-Along)
facilitator reference only
ID: C3Oq9lXWTQ8
Timestamp Phase Facilitator Cues 00:00 - 05:00 Warm-Up Encourage slow, deep breaths. Mirror the neck rolls and shoulder shrugs. Cue: "Let's wake up those joints!" 05:01 - 15:00 Active Cardio Increased intensity. Watch for foot taps and arm swings. Cue: "Bigger arms = higher heart rate! You've got this!" 15:01 - 25:00 The Peak High energy. Call-and-response clapping if it fits the beat. Cue: "Give me a big smile! Almost there!" 25:01 - 30:00 Cool-Down Slow movements. Stretching out the hamstrings and side body. Cue: "Breathe in that achievement."
Mirroring
Face the class. Use your Left arm when the video uses Right.
Volume
Keep music at 70%. Your voice must be the leading guide.
Eye Contact
Look at participants, not just the screen.
Encouragement
Individual shout-outs ("Nice reach, Mary!") boost mood.
Backup Plan
Keep a second device ready with the video loaded just in case of wifi lag.
Rhythm and Reach Visuals Presentation Rhythm & Reach
Chair Zumba Party
Heart Health
Mood Boost
Community
Safety First
Sit Tall
Core engaged, feet flat on the floor.
Listen to Your Body
Rest whenever you need. Keep it fun!
Stay Hydrated
Small sips throughout the session.
Your Chair is Your Partner!
Thorough Warm Up
Minutes 1-5
Roll It Out
Gentle circles for neck, shoulders, and wrists.
Core Flow
Slow side bends and seated torso twists.
Chest Opener
Wide arm reaches. Breathe deep.
Build the Rhythm
Minutes 6-10
Seated March
Start low, build to high knees with rhythm.
Toe & Heel
Side-to-side taps. Alternate heel digs.
Arm Circles
Windmill arms while marching. Energize!
PLAY Follow-Along Workout
30:00
Embedded media
Social Spark
"Tell a neighbor one thing that made you smile today!"
Connect & Boost Each Other
Great Workout!
See you at the next session.
Social Spark Cards Activity Social Spark Cards
Boost Your Mood & Build Connection
Activity Type
Post-Workout Social
How to use these cards:
Cut along the dotted lines. Hand one card to each participant after the cool-down. Invite them to find a partner and share their answer to the prompt on the card. Great for building community and ending the session on a high note!
Which song today made you want to dance the most?
Rhythm & Reach
What is one thing you are grateful for this week?
Rhythm & Reach
Give a sincere compliment to the person on your left!
Rhythm & Reach
What is your favorite way to stay active outside of this class?
Rhythm & Reach
What was your favorite movement from today's session?
Rhythm & Reach
If you could dance to any song in the world next week, what would it be?
Rhythm & Reach
