In December of 1999, I was facing the fact that I needed a life style change.  I had quit smoking a couple of years prior to this, but still felt that I needed some sort of activity to boost my cardiovascular system.  My doctor had suggested that I enroll in a particular program offered at the Field House.  Unfortunately, the time of day that it was offered, was very inconvenient due to my work schedule and family.  I really wanted to get into something, but wasn't sure what I would do. 

As luck or fate would have it, the Leisure Services Guide arrived in my mailbox.  I was glancing through the different activities..... Aerobics? Not!.......... Jazzercise? Not!  I couldn't picture myself bouncing around like an automaton for a few hours a week.  Hmmmm..............Karate?  No.  One kick would probably put me in traction!  Aquasize?  Maybe if it was summer.  I don't like winter and I hate it even more, when I have wet hair!  Besides,  I like to swim - not bob around in the water like a "Beluga".  What about dance?  I had heard about adult ballet classes - perhaps there was something there?  So, I skimmed through the dance section and DancEgypt's ad caught my eye.  I felt a tinge of excitement.  Belly Dance?  For Fitness?  Wasn't it supposed to be "risque"?  I could remember that years ago, I had watched  a Belly Dancer on T.V. and she was stunning.  I was mesmerized by it!  After contacting Elaine, I managed to brow beat a friend of mine into coming and taking a session with me.  What could it hurt?  I was assured that it was in fact not "risque" and that they would teach me Middle Eastern Dance.  Was I hooked!!!! 

I have been active now for the better part of the five years.  As well, I began to perform about two and a half years ago.  First, with a group and then on my own in some free dance solos at Haflas.   I did not envision this happening when I joined. I honestly never felt that I could be of a fine enough caliber to be a dancer. I suppose that because I am it is my "Bonus Prize" for the hard work. 

Away from the performance aspect, middle eastern dance is very cardiovascular.  It is fast paced, the moves are intricate and graceful and the music allows the dancer to be as creative as she wants.  I am in the best shape of my life (even though I am a size 12).  The dance is fantastic for all body types, but a little bit of padding allows the moves to look even better!  As June 24, 2010 em has sky rocketed, so I hold my head higher, I am in better shape, so I can stand straighter, my scoliosis has improved and most importantly, I have an absolute blast! 

 Monica and Elaine have a way of bringing out the best in people and strive for near perfection in their training techniques.  They know their stuff and love to learn new and exciting things themselves, to pass on to the group.  They are personable, flexible and funny.  I have never felt unimportant in their classes and have always received exactly enough instruction to be able to master a technique.

Just a final note, in the summer of 2002, I had a hysterectomy.  I was dancing within two months of my surgery.  I know that my swift recovery was as a result of the conditioning I get from the dance.  It may not be the same for everyone, but that is my story. 

Oh, did I mention that I'm 38?  You are never too old (or young) to start!

Enjoy!

Joan Goodman