Getting ready to get fit in New Haven

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- Getting you fit for life; that's what FITWEEK New Haven' is all about.

It starts Monday and goes on all next week.

Many businesses promoting fitness in greater New Haven are offering free classes during FITWEEK. It's all about helping you find the right fit to take that healthy step.

Upbeat music and Latin infused dance steps add up to one high calorie burning workout. Zumba had some women stepping and moving to the beat Friday.

"We've only done two songs and I'm soaked," said News 8's Jocelyn Maminta. "In Zumba, an hour of Zumba, you can lose between 500 to 1,000 calories."

It's the exercise of choice for Julie Ramirez, who started when she weighed more than 300 pounds and was diagnosed with diabetes.

"They told me I had to start watching what I eat," Ramirez said. "I would probably have to be on insulin, pills."

Two years later and 80 pounds lighter, she's no longer a diabetic.

"I started shrinking so I said, if I eat healthier and I get fit more, I can lose more and be fit and be more active," Ramirez said.

Mom, Maribel, has a similar story shedding 90 pounds.

"I used to have high blood pressure, take two different kinds of medication, then my doctor lowered one of them down and pretty soon I'm going to be out of it," said Maribel Santos.

It is just one of many fitness spots taking part in FITWEEK New Haven.

"Fit week is all about introducing people to new activities that fit their lifestyles so they can stay active, fit and healthy," said Shana Schneider, FITWEEK.

From studios to gyms, many are offering free classes to do just that.

"It helps to create a healthy, happy community where you have people who can bring more energy to their work life, also to their personal life and it really benefits us all," Schneider said.

While this mother and daughter team are motivated, this is not for everyone.

"Even walking 30 minutes a day is incredible," said Milda McClain. "Just keep moving, if you can't afford to do Zumba, go out for a walk for 30 minutes."

For more information, visit FITWEEK New Haven's website .