5 Stereotypes About Bellydance Class That Aren’t Really True

by | Jul 31, 2019 | Tools and Tips

It’s summertime and that means getting in shape which means bellydance class! At least, for some people. I have found that there are some stereotypes about bellydance class that tend to turn some away from the class. And conversely, attract some to the class who end up disappointed when they discover that it’s not what they thought it would be. So, to save us all the trouble, here are some stereotypes about bellydance class that aren’t really true!

dance class, dance for fitness, bellydance by amartia
  1. It’s all about being sexy for your husband. While what you do in the privacy of your own home is your business, that is not what bellydance class is about. If you choose to take some movements, home, that is up to you, but that’s not what the instructor’s goal is.
  2. It’s only for skinny, young girls. Bellydance is for all ages, shapes and sizes. It truly doesn’t matter, there will always be a bellydance move for you!
  3. You’ll be performing for money after your first session. It takes years of study to properly learn bellydance and how to perform and present yourself as a professional. One session is not enough.
  4. It will hurt your back. If your back hurts while you’re in bellydance class, first of all, tell your instructor. It could be that your spinal and pelvic alignment is not in a neutral position. It could also mean that your abs are in need of further training. Your abs aren’t just in the front, they are like a girdle that wraps around your torso. Weakness in the abs could cause those in your back to work harder, and hence, cause pain.
  5. I will also learn Indian dance. While dancers in videos coming from Indian may incorporate bellydance movements, it is not all bellydance. Also they modify those movements to fit their style and it may not be the way your instructor teaches. While you may be able to do some of the moves they present, you will not come out of class dancing like those in the videos exactly.

There you have it. These are just some of the ones that I have encountered most frequently as an instructor. If you have any more to add, please do so in the comment section below! I am always happy to discuss!