Raqs-Fit

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Raqs (n., Arabic, Persian) dance. 

Join this fun, dynamic, dance workout inspired by the dances and music of South West Asia and North Africa (such as “belly dance” and other forms.) Each class begins with key elements—steps, posture, muscle engagement, breath work, and technique tips for safe execution. Then get your heart rate going with 30-minutes of low-impact yet moderate- to high-intensity cardio dance flow. All levels, abilities, and adult ages are welcome.

Different Raqs-Fit class formats may have somewhat different fitness or conditioning objectives (e.g. high-intensity cardio vs. strength and muscle control vs. balance), or emphasize different dance styles, but they follow a similar 60-minute format: 

• 30 minutes: Warm-up, introduction and grounding in key techniques relevant to the fitness objective and style of the cardio portion of class. This can include training specific dance movements or steps but also attention to body dynamics, posture and alignment, muscle engagement, weight transfers and follow-along tips to encourage healthy execution and build skills.  
• 30 minutes: Continuous dance workout (cardio) – using the techniques taught in the first half intermixed with other relatively easy-to-follow steps or movements. Depending on class format, this upbeat dance flow can be varied with moderate- or high-intensity, yet always be low-impact or low-impact friendly.

Are these classes right for me?
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If you're a belly dancer Yes! You'll work on techniques in a some familiar movement and music forms (and maybe learn something new!), plus get a muscle and cardio workout that is specifically geared toward improving conditioning for dance!

If you're totally new to SWANA/belly dance: Absolutely! These are fitness and wellness classes, designed for any level or background. You'll get a good work out, learn some new moves, and get some tips and tricks that can help you in other movement and wellness work!