I realize a lot of you would rather starve yourselves than exercise, but have you haters tried Zumba? The workout fuses Latin rhythms with easy-to-follow dance moves.

I fell for Zumba a few years ago at the first beat of a Shakira song and haven’t looked back. I was hooked and earned my teaching certification last year, but still love taking classes from other instructors, especially Tony and Jessica Witt at Amore Dance Studio, 527 W. 39th St., in Westport. The husband and wife are professionally trained dancers and group fitness instructors and love introducing newbies to Zumba.

It’s so versatile and fun,” said Jessica Witt, who teaches and performs with Tony at worldwide dance and fitness conventions. “It really appeals to everyone.”

Witt sites the studio’s participants as an example. The Saturday class has men and women ranging in age from 6 to 86.

“We realize there are stereotypes about guys and dancing, but with recent shows and movies showcasing partner dancing, it is more acceptable for males to dance these dances,” she said. “People enjoy it because we focus on easy moves that get into the Latin fun music. We want you to let loose and add your own style into the class.”

Zumba instructors, including Tony and Jessica, repeat a variety of simple moves to allow participants to quickly catch on.

“If a particular rhythm is hard for someone that’s OK because we will change it in a few minutes so they can continue to get into the class,” Jessica Witt said.

I enjoy the noon classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays, where you can spend $5 for a lunch session and burn calories instead of putting them on.

Check out the studio’s class schedule at amoredance.com.

Benefits of Zumba •High caloric expenditure — burn 600 to 800 calories on average per class.

•Nonintimidating exercise — emphasis is on fun.

•Positive self-image — participants are encouraged to let go and express themselves.

•A sculpted body — the dynamic core workout and high-calorie expenditures result in a sculpted body.

•Exercise in disguise — dancing is fun.