A Burlesque Class Q and A

Q.  I am new to the area and would love to take the burlesque classes for fun, exercise and learning. I have taken belly dancing and salsa for weight loss etc. My question is I am a size 14 at 5’9 so I'm not petite what would your recommendation be for me? You can be honest. Would I be ok in these classes, and which class should I start with? I have lost 140 lbs and have about 40 to go but LOVE to dance! It has always been a goal to take these types of classes. I would love to be a performer. Thank you so much! (From A. R.)

A.  Congratulations on all your hard work and success!  As a veteran dance instructor and professional dancer, I highly recommend anyone wishing to experience dance to TAKE A CLASS!  I personally don't believe in any exceptions to this rule.  All you need is the desire, and any reason you can come up with to not take a class is simply an excuse not to try.  So go for it!

 

Regarding the VK's burlesque classes in particular:  our studio/fitness classes all begin with a 30-minute warm-up that includes stretching for flexibility and toning.  From then, depending on the class, can include across the floor exercises and a dance combination, or if a workshop, then into a specified dance routine.  For the summer at the Verandah Club (Dallas, TX) we are focusing on our workshop series, Summertime Blues.  In June we will be debuting "Fedora Fever," which focuses on hip and shoulder isolations, and slow burlesque dance movement.  This is a great introduction to the stylized burlesque movement.  For more information and guidelines on adult dance classes, visit What You Need to Know About Dance Class.

 

Dance for weight loss:  I believe any dance class, whether burlesque, traditional dance, or folk, is a great addition to a fitness regime.  However, dance in general is described as anaerobic.  To lose weight strictly through dancing would require an extreme amount of hours of dancing.  Keep in mind professional dancers attend dance classes, rehearsals, perform, and also workout at gyms, jog, and diet to maintain their dancer physique.  Dance is a fantastic way to build muscle, poise, flexibility, and grace - and great addition to your fitness routine, but anyone selling you a couple dance classes a week is all you need for fitness and weight loss is laughing all the way to the bank.  Enjoy dance class for the benefits it provides, but also include a healthy fitness and diet practice as well.  Visit our section: The Benefits of Dance.