Thread: Belly dancing and step class?

Hi, do any other dancers also do step aerobic workouts? A teacher told me years ago that step wasn't good for belly dancing as it can shorten the calf muscles. I have problems with tight calf muscles anyway but have been attending step classes at my gym. I've only recently started dancing again so am feeling a bit stiff overall so would like to know if anybody has an opinion on whether step is a help or hindrance?

Also any tips on good calf muscle stretches would be great! Also do you think it helps not to wear heels in daily life?

Originally Posted by daisy_witch

Any tips on good calf muscle stretches would be great! Also do you think it helps not to wear heels in daily life?

My favorite stretch for my calf muscles and Achilles tendons is to go for evening walks around the neighborhood, which is hilly. Climb a hill in flat shoes, and you'll feel your calves and Achilles tendong getting a workout!

High heels are evil. Yes, they definitely shorten the Achilles tendon and calf muscle. They can also cause bunions by squeezing your foot into a too-small toe box, and cause corns and callouses. In addition, they promote a posture that has the breasts jutting forward and the rear jutting back, which leads to habitual swayback and horrible lower back pain.

Amen Shira, what I have been saying for years now :)

Two of my favorite things (step and dance)! I've done step aerobics for years and I can't say that I've had any problems from it. I always stretch really well after class. I believe that the aerobic capacity and strength gained from the step classes is very beneficial to my dancing.

I got a lot of knee problems doing step-had to give it up as it stopped me dancing.Everbody's different you might be ok with it.

The gym that I go to has a variety of classes (including step) which I go to sometimes (sometimes it is once a week, other times I go once every other week) I really can't say that I've noticed a difference in my dancing (one of my dance classes is the day after my step class). Perhaps I'm not going to step often enough for it to make a difference?