Philippines crushes world record for largest zumba dance class

More than 12,000 people have officially crushed the Guinness World Record for the largest Zumba class ever to dance.

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The new record was set Sunday in Mandaluyong, a suburb of the Philippine capital, Manila.

Clad in bright yellow shirts, 12,975 people filled the streets to follow the steps of instructors lifted above the crowds on stages scattered throughout the neighborhood.

The record was previously held by the city of Cebu, also in the Philippines, ABC News reports.

Zumba is a dance-fitness program founded by Colombian choreographer Alberto 'Beto' Pérez in the 1990s. It boasts dance and aerobic elements, and incorporates hip-hop, samba, salsa, soca, mambo and merengue.

The event, which took place on July 19, was organized by the city of Mandaluyong, was part of Mayor Benhur Abalos' birthday celebrations.

Abalos, who recently won a United Nations Public Service Award, launched a health care program that encourages a healthier lifestyle, Guinness said.

A total of 84 licensed Zumba instructors from the Philippine Zumba Network practiced for 2 months to prepare for facilitating the record attempt.

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