Belly Dancing Frequently Asked Questions
What do I wear to class?
There are no strict clothing rules but comfortable attire is recommended - clothes you can move and stretch in (i.e. no jeans). Recommended: leggings / tracksuits / long skirt with a coinbelt / hipscarf if you have one, and either a short or long top. Footwise, a light slipper (i.e. split sole ballet shoes) or barefeet are recommended as rubber soled shoes tend to cling to the floor. Changing rooms are available at each of the classes locations.
Do I have to show my belly?
No. It is entirely up to how you feel. Even when performing, many professional dancers keep their belly covered.
How long is each class?
1 hour, unless otherwise stated.
I want to try one class before I sign up to a course, is this possible?
Yes, there is an ongoing weekly beginners' class where you can just drop-in (Tuesdays, 6:30pm, £5 per class +£2 membership). It is an ideal taster class to see if you like the style of dance and teaching method, you can then decide whether to commit to a course. For more details on this class please see the level 1 timetables.
What will I learn on an intensive 10-week course?
The instructor teaches technique following Fleur's goal orientated syllabus (which syllabus you follow depends on which level you are signed up on) as well as a short 3-4min choreography. By the end of the course you will have not only learnt a range of different movements but also a whole sequence to a song (CD provided free of charge). You then get an opportunity to perform this in front of your friends and family at the end of term show.
Do I have to participate in the end of term show?
No, this is entirely optional. It is a platform for students who wish to gain performance experience, have fun and show to their friends and families what they have learnt. Students who have performed in the past have claimed it was a confidence building experience but the decision is yours, if you are not ready or uncomfortable with the idea it is totally OK.
I am enrolled on a course, what happens if I miss a class?
You should be OK to catch up at the next session as the instructor goes over the movements again. If however you don't understand a particular move please feel free to ask her to break it down again at the next class (during class times). Practising at home will also help. Please note classes cannot be transferred to another term nor refunded if missed.
What happens if I am late to a class?
It's OK, but you will have missed the warm up so you should aim to warm-up your body in the corner / corridor before following technique taught in class. This is for injury prevention.
I recently found out I am pregnant, can I still attend belly dancing classes?
Many women claim belly dancing is beneficial during the latter stages of pregnancy and that it has helped them during birth. If you have previously practised bellydancing, it is easier to continue after the initial 3 months of pregnancy. If you are new to this type of exercise and pregnant, you should consult your doctor regarding what movements you can do in class. Belly dancing should be treated like any exercise, consult your doctor first before attending class.
