Aerobic bellydance, is a form of aerobic exercise that draws heavily on the moves of Raqs shaqri and Tribal bellydance. The emphasis is on increasing the flexibility of your core as well as concentrating on isolating and strengthening muscles that usually don't get targeted by the average strength-training regimen. These include the rectus abdominals, internal and external obliques, transversus in the abdominal areas, and the hip abductors, gluteal muscles, and quadriceps in the lower half of the body. While working all these muscle groups, the continual movement also provides a serious cardio element to this unique workout.
This class was specifically placed in the middle of the day as a physical as well as mental break from all the hard work we do. Many of us have never a) danced in a class setting; b) BELLYdanced; c) exercised in recent memory, or d) tried something this novel before. That's okay! Move with the music. Laugh. Jingle! Look yourself in the eye as you dance, and feel good you're doing something good for yourself. Feel silly trying a new move? We all do! No one's going to make you perform at the Imperial Fez tonight (unless, of course, you want to -- and then I'll gladly come and cheer you on!) Above all, HAVE FUN. I certainly am, teaching this class, and I always look forward to every Tuesday with y'all!
