ShimmyFit!

“Fitness and grace through belly dance!”

Designed for fun, fitness and self-expression, this class is a low-impact total body workout incorporating movements and music from a variety of traditional and contemporary Middle Eastern dance styles. ShimmyFit combines the fun of a fitness class with the instruction of a dance class to give you the best of both!

In an easy-to-follow format, participants learn proper dance technique as they develop core control, flexibility and improved posture. The drills and combinations help tone muscles and improve coordination while teaching fluid body movements and strong graceful arms. No previous dance experience is required and all levels, shapes and sizes benefit!

What is ShimmyFit?
ShimmyFit is a unique format created by master instructor and professional performer, Katayoun.  Especially suited for recreational and fitness programs, the ShimmyFit format is a joint-friendly, total body workout incorporating movements and music from a variety of Middle Eastern dance styles. Since the fitness benefits of belly dance are inherent in the body-loving movements, ShimmyFit is a belly dance technique class presented in an easy-to-follow group exercise format.

How is ShimmyFit different from other dance fitness programs such as Zumba?
With ShimmyFit, students actually learn to dance, not just exercise.  In a step-by-step format, participants learn proper dance technique as they develop core control, flexibility and improved posture.  It is a great complimentary activity to cardio dance or aerobic exercise programs such as Zumba. As participants practice and refine their technique, they are toning muscles and improving coordination while learning fluid body movements and strong graceful arms. 

What can students expect from a ShimmyFit belly dance class?
Each class begins with a dynamic warm-up, then basic isolations and movements that are the foundation of traditional Middle Eastern dance.  Using an anatomical approach, the class progresses by adding layers of movement in easy-to-follow sequences.  The drills develop into dynamic combinations, which may culminate in full routines. As students are guided in the intricacies of technique and artistry, there is plenty of room for self-expression and exploration. The program is designed so that students, regardless of experience, are enjoying the art, joy and benefits of Middle Eastern dance in a fun, structured and safe format.

Who can benefit from belly dance?
Based on traditional Middle Eastern dance styles, belly dance is for anyone who enjoys moving to music and can be modified for various levels of ability and intensity. Because of the low-impact, body-friendly nature of the movements, belly dance can be especially beneficial to those with physical limitations or injuries. While it can consist of cardio segments, ShimmyFit is not strictly a cardio class; there are some energetic steps and many of the basic combinations can be modified for a more intense cardio experience.

Why ShimmyFit?
Mosaique’s ShimmyFit program draws inspiration from vast cultural sources so it is always fresh and exciting! With music and movements derived from Egyptian Raqs Sharki (belly dance), Beledi (folkloric) as well as classical and folkloric styles of Persian dance, there are infinite flavors of movements and combinations to explore! The ShimmyFit format is easily modified for beginner and mixed-level classes to an advanced level class incorporating more challenging concepts.

For more information about offering ShimmyFit classes in your business or organization, contact Katayoun:
571-283-9494, katayoundance@hotmail.com.

 In addition to ShimmyFit classes, Mosaique offers ShimmyFit Instructor Training.