Frequently Asked Questions
Belly Dancing. Low-impact exercise made fun!
Bellydance is for people of all ages, shapes and sizes. Belly dancing is a low impact activity. It is an excellent way to improve fitness and flexibility without undue pressure on the muscles and joints. Moonjelly has a background in health and would like to know any health issues prior to class so alternatives can be provided to ensure a high level of both fun and safety.
Can men dance too?
Moonjelly is happy for men to attend if serious about desire to dance. In the Middle East there are many male dancers and Moonjelly can adapt moves to provide more masculine energy or, in contrast, to increase elegance.
Is Bellydance good for pregnancy?
Many pregnant women enjoy the low impact movement however Moonjelly needs to know that you are pregnant prior to commencement of classes. It is important to not become too warm during class as raised internal thermodynamics can threaten pregnancy. Also your ligaments will be much softer than usual during pregnancy in preparation for birth. It is not usually recommended to take up any new exercise when pregnant however Moonjelly adheres to recommendations for exercise as set out by RANZCOG (Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetrician and Gynaecologists).
For further information about pregnancy and belly dance see the article by Melbourne University Lecturer Margaret Sherbern: here.
You can also check out the SMA Pregnancy Statement here
You will need a pdf viewer to view this file. You can download one for free here 
How fit do I need to be?
Classes are relaxed but structured to cater for the diverse group of people drawn to Belly Dancing.
What do I wear to class?
Wear clothes that allow free and comfortable movement such as leggings and T-Shirt, or leotards and tights. A hip scarf helps to accentuate movement of your hips. No jeans please as too restrictive. No street shoes or food in the dance studio please.
What about the class levels?
The beginner levels are a gentle introduction to movement and students move to the more challenging intermediate levels when they feel comfortable and when basic movements are mastered. The Moonjelly Bellydance approach is to allow you to learn the basic skills of belly dancing in a relaxed, enjoyable environment and then move on to more challenging movements and combinations at your own pace. Classes are social and friendly, focusing on technique and then incorporating the steps and movements into a choreographed dance.
Which dance styles are taught?
Dance styles taught are Classical Orientale, Modern Fusion and various regional styles. In teaching these dances, Moonjelly Bellydance incorporate the magical tools of the dance - veils, zills (finger cymbals), sticks or swords.
"In the beginning was the noise
And this noise begat rhythm
And rhythm begat everything else
and the dance began".
- The Grateful Dead