students balance swords
about bellydance
Bellydance frequently asked questions (FAQs Page)
©Natasya Katsikaris 1999-2008
Hello, This FAQs page presents general information about the history of bellydance, health benefits of bellydance, and what you can expect from a bellydance class.
If you are the scholarly type, please see the online text book for in-depth music & dance theory.
Scroll to the bottom of this page for links to YouTube clips of many different belly dance styles.
bellydance faqs:
What is the most correct name for Bellydance?
Near Eastern Dance, Middle Eastern Dance, Orientale, or Raks Sharki
What are the health benefits of Bellydance?
Bellydance strengthens and tones the whole body while developing grace and balance. Bellydance improves flexibility -- especially of the spine and hips. A typical bellydance class provides a moderate, low-impact aerobic workout.
What should I wear to Bellydance class?
Every teacher will have her own rules on this ...
Natasya recommends the following:
barefoot or hermes dance sandals.
Stretch leggings, yoga pants, or jazz-dance pants
Sports bra or other bra that offers adequate support.
Leotard or choli top so teacher can see your posture.
A hip scarf or shimmy belt to emphasize and define hip movement.
In any case, dress for a work-out because you WILL sweat };>
Photo of a bellydance class
Which Bellydance class is right for me?
If you have no previous experience, start with an Introductory class.
If you have some dance experience but are new to bellydance, any Level 1 class is suitable.
Dancers with extensive training in other dance forms may be able to progress to a Level 2 class in a matter of weeks, but generally expect to spend about a year mastering Level 1 before moving onto Level 2.
Level 3 classes are performance-oriented and require a high degree of physical fitness and mastery of basic technique.
What is a bellydance class like?
A good belly dance class should have a warm-up, aerobic section (fast moves which raise the heart rate, and a cool-down with stretches. A good belly dance teacher will instruct on correct posture and technique. Expect to learn both single movements and combinations. Learning zills is necessary to have a thorough understanding of the art.
Warm-ups at the start of class
Learning hip drops
Stretches at the end of class
An advanced class rehearses for performance
Where does Bellydance come from?
Bellydance is found all over the Near East, including Egypt, Morocco, Lebanon, Greece, Turkey, and many other countries.
Each country has its own style and music.
Bellydance has become so popular in the USA that modern bellydance has American jazzdance elements as well.
Dances similar to bellydance were recorded in ancient Greek and Roman manuscripts, so we know this dance has been around for thousands of years.
What are zills?
Zills, or finger cymbals, are the traditional rhythmic accompanyment to bellydance. Not all bellydance styles use zills ... but anyone who is serious about bellydance learns how to play them. zills
Does Bellydance improve "core" strength?
Yes. Bellydance movements, when done correctly, strengthen the deep postural muscles of the spine, abdominals, and hips. A good bellydance class teaches correct postural alignment.
How did Bellydance originate?
Human beings started dancing in Paleolithic times. Early dances probably expressed themes of hunting, mating, and birth. The stomach movements of bellydance may have been done to mimic childbirth. However, this is just a theory--we don't know for sure. Bellydance arm and head movements probably mimic the gestures of animals and birds. Hip movements most likely represent seeking and finding a mate };>
Am I too fat to bellydance?
Probably not. Most Level 1 and Level 2 bellydance movements can be done by ANYONE in reasonably good health. If you have serious health problems related to your weight, seek the advice of your doctor. For most people (even if you are "out of shape"), Bellydance provides a moderate workout that is very beneficial to the health no matter what size you are.
Dancers come in all shapes and sizes.
Am I too skinny to be a bellydancer?
No ... This is why padded bras and fluffy scarves were invented };>
Belly Dancers come in all shapes and sizes.
Can I bellydance while pregnant?
Yes! Fusion Studio advanced student, Michelle, danced & performed up to her 7th month! Vicki is 2 months pregnant here. Bellydance is an excellent activity for toning the muscles used in childbirth. If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider.
Am I too old to bellydance?
Most dancers working the professional club/restaurant/party circuit are in the 20 - 40 age group. Dancers performing at amateur events such as bellydance festivals perform through their 50s and even 60s.
Am I too young to bellydance?
Natasya takes students from age 12 in adult classes. Children under 12 are welcome when accompanied by an adult or with special permission from the teacher. Children under 8 generally do better in a children's class. Every teacher will have her own rules on this. Fusion Studio had students as young as 11 participate in a performance.
What are the different styles of bellydance costumes?
There are many ... but here are some of the classics ...
Beledi Dress
2-piece Cabaret (Bedlah)
Tribal Style
Urban Tribal Style
What are the different styles of belly dance?
Too many to list ... but here are some examples
American Tribal Style (Nericcio format)
Youtube of Nericcio format ATS bellydance
Youtube - more "classic" ATS to 6/8 rhythm
Rajathani dance influened American Tribal Style belly dance
Urban Tribal / Electronica Fusion / Techno Tribal
American Cabaret (or Orientale) more ... more ...
Turkish bellydance style
Turkish Roman (Gypsy) bellydance style
Modern Turkish Psychebelly
More Turkish Roman bellydance
Turkish Roma man's solo
Class teaching Turkish Roma 9/8 bellydance
Turkish Roma man bellydance
Real *Gypsy* dance ... more ... hungarian ... more ...
(note: the Americanized version is not authentic Romanes)
Roma roots of gypsy skirt dance
Theatrical Turkish Roma bellydance
Egyptian Style (Raqs Sharqi) More ...
Egyptian party dance on TV with star Dina
Folkloric or Beledi Egyptian Style
Lebanese style belly dance
Amani, my favorite lebanese dancer, more ... more ...
Greek Tsiftetelli (Belly dance) more ... party style ...
Tsiftetello to Bourneli - classic song
YouTube of Classic Egyptian Style
Katy - classic Egyptian my favorite
Katy was a Greek dancer who lived and danced in Egypt during the "golden era" of Egyptian musical films
Flamenco Fusion Belly dance