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 A new addition to the many activities at Legacy of Leesburg is the much anticipated Belly Dancing Class…yes you read it correctly, Belly Dancing Class!
At the first meeting of the class in early October, instructor Evelyne Poelzing provided a brief history of how belly dancing became so popular, the dancer’s dress and music, and an overview of how the weekly class would be conducted. When she asked the class what they hoped to gain by taking belly dancing, the reasons given were to lose weight, strengthen their back, exercise, just for fun, and “I have a lot of belly to lose”.
Belly dancing was developed originally to strengthen muscles in preparation for childbirth. It began with the Egyptians, and has become an excellent exercise for people of all ages. Ms. Poelzing explained that there are several basic steps that are used in the dance, and these steps permit the belly dancer to express themselves in conjunction with the music. The steps and the individual’s own style is what makes the dancing personal, as the dancer learns to control their body in developing that style.
At this first meeting, most of the class time was devoted to basic exercises that were designed to begin strengthening neck, arm and leg muscles. The class was encouraged to practice these exercises at home. Practice CDs will be made available at future meetings so practicing at home will be feasible.
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