Belly Dancing - The Loft Pilates Studio

Also called raqs sharqi in the Arabic world or Oriental dance in Europe, is one of the oldest social dances in world history. Initially, it was performed by people of all ages and both sexes during festive occasions, such as wedding, social gathering for fun and celebration. Boys and girls learnt this form of expression at an early age, often by imitating their older siblings.

During the turn of the last century, the costume now associated with this dance, was adopted by dancers in Egypt to fulfill the Hollywood/burlesque image that Western tourists came to expect. The native costumes covered and concealed the contours of the body with only a scarf or a belt tied around the hips to highlight the movements.

Ever evolving, this versatile dance keeps absorbing a blend of influences of modern fashion, film and television imagery, hip hop and many more.

The benefits of belly dance are both mental and physical. Dancing provides a good cardiovascular workout and helps increase both flexibility and strength, focusing on the torso or "core muscles". Most belly dance styles emphasize muscular "isolations", teaching the ability to move various muscles or muscle groups independently. It also builds leg strength and veil work can add a tremendous workout to your arms and shoulders.

belly dancing

Class Description:
The Belly dance/Pilates class starts with at least 45 minutes of Pilates exercises design to release your hips, open your chest, relax your shoulders and build your core and thigh muscles. Each week a new Pilates routine is created to adapt to your weekly needs. Thereafter, the music gets louder, the laughting multiply and the sweating begins. Come and discover muslces you did not know you had. All levels are welcome. No dance backgroud necessary. Ideal for those who want to uild a positive body-image, increase their confidence and become more fluid. Hips scarves provided for those who need it. The veil may be use from time to time to add an additional workout to your arms and shoulders.

Private Functions:
Belly Dancing adds fun to your birthday and Bachelorette parties, special events and Festivals.

Prior to calling, you need to know if you wish to have a performance, a class or little bit of both. The performer/instructor can come to your location and will teach basic moves that can be easily adapted to all participants. Have your date ready, the approximate number of attendees and location. If you need a location, The Loft studios can be used but space is limited to 10 participants maximum. Prices range from $20 to $40 per person and are based on all the above mention factors. A meeting is set-up to discuss and arrange event details and payments.

Hip scarves can be ordered in advance to enhance this unique experience.

To get additional information for one of your events, please contact Myriam at 416-604-0177 or via email at myriam@theloftpilates.com

The Loft Pilates Studio