Getting in tune and in shape with dance

[caption id="attachment_39244" align="alignright" width="250"] GEARED FOR THE DANCE FLOOR: A flamenco dancer holds her skirt ruffles and uses a fan as a prop during a performance[/caption]

FLAMENCO dancers show their emotions through their bodies as they beautifully craft movements with passion, romance and fervour – and Nelson Mandela Bay dance teachers say it also gives you "beautiful arms and sleek legs".

Owing its initial popularity to the southern region of Spain, flamenco dance is an ancient tradition that has for more than two centuries taken over dance floors all around the world – drawing inspiration from Greek, Roman, Indian, Moorish and Jewish cultures.

Nowadays, if flamenco dancers are not competing at championships, they can be seen performing at celebrations such as weddings, parties or social events.

Flamenco de Algoa dance teacher Margaret Wilmore – whose stage name is Margarita Maron – said: "Flamenco dance is a celebration of all aspects of life. In addition to a beautiful mind and soul, the dance form may certainly give off good physical results – beautiful arms and sleek legs."

She said although the art of this rhythmical dance was often difficult to master, "everyone who is anyone" may take up lessons at her Charlo studio and need not worry about bringing dance attire.

"The dance is forever evolving and changing with the times.

"It may be adapted to suit older people's personalities. I teach teachers, nurses, doctors, young and older people from all walks," Wilmore said.

Bluewater Bay Spanish dance teacher Fiona Burness, (nee Rodel), a flamenco champion and international examiner, agreed the dance offered lifestyle benefits.

"Flamenco dance is good for exercise, gives one an incredibly great posture and builds up confidence.

"Not only do the dancers learn techniques like how to do footwork – 'zapateado' – and how to play the castanets but with music that is so vibrant, they come out energised.

"It is definitely therapeutic for the soul. Very good for the mind – helps with co-ordination.

"You can have the biggest problems in the world, but come to a flamenco class and come out a different person – ready to face the world."

She said dance was one of her passions and although flamenco was specialised, anybody could sign up for classes. Burness has been running her studio, Fiona Rodel School of Spanish Dancing, since she was 18.

Fernglen-based Rakshada Bellydancers, owned by Nicky Gouws – whose stage name is Samsi – offers a fusion of flamenco and belly dance lessons.

"The most important things you can learn from belly-dancing-flamenco fusion is self confidence – to celebrate womanhood and loving your body. Posture, excellent back work and toned body are some benefits.

"I combine oriental belly dance moves with flamenco. We still dance barefoot as with the belly dancing, we do dress with the flamenco costumes and use fans as props," Gouws said.

Gouws said women of all ages attended her classes. - Balisa Ntloko