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Mayerthorpe Freelancer: Get your Bellyfit
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Women in Mayerthorpe have a novel way to stay fit this winter, with a Bellyfit class being held at Elmer Elson Elementary school every Monday night.
The class is taught by Danielle Merrifield, who has been teaching bellydance for 3-4 years. She said the class incorporates a range of movements designed to help tighten up the core muscles.
“Bellyfit is a fusion fitness class, it takes the wisdom of the ancient eastern cultures and mixes it with the knowledge and technology and trends of western athletic classes,” said Merrifield, who also plays hockey in her spare time.
She said a class starts with opening postures, and then moves into meditation, cardio-vascular activities, some cool-down moves, pilates inspired exercises and a yoga stretching routine.
Merrifield said the class is typically all-female, because the exercise routine was designed for women.
“The core is the main part of the feminine,” said Merrifield. “Typically it’s a women-only exercise because of that and because it makes it a safe place to come and exercise.”
Merrifield said the class incorporates moves from Bellydance, bongra, and traditional African dance moves set to an ethno-techno soundtrack is uniquely feminine.
“Not to say aerobics aren’t great, but (it’s) a lot more linear based, with more arm and leg movement, and with (Bellyfit) we’re not negating the hip movements of the female,” said Merrifield. “There’s a lot more spine, and you’re always conscious of your core, holding it in, and breathing with your stomach.”
Anne Preugschas said Bellyfit has helped her become more agile.
“I’m old and I need flexibility and exercise,” said Preugschas. “It really makes you feel good when you exercise.”
Dana Bussche said she started taking Bellyfit because she thought the classes sounded fun.
“I feel more active in the winter, and I have more energy than I had.”
Merrifield said the 20 women who take part in the Mayerthorpe class come for exerciseand for fun.
“It’s not just exercise, there’s the community aspect as well,” said Merrifield. “There’s a lot deeper meaning to it than just an exercise class, but its presentable as exercise and fun.”
“The idea is to come and enjoy, and if you enjoy it you’ll come back,” said Merrifield.
The fitness instructor also hosts classes at Out ‘a Bounds in Whitecourt on Mon. at 5pm, Wed. at 1pm, and Thurs. at 6:30pm. The first class is $5 dollars, and $8 for each drop-in session afterwards. Punch cards are also available for multiple lessons.
The Mayerthorpe class is held on Mon. at 7pm and costs $12 to drop-in. Merrifield said women of all fitness levels are welcome to join.
Mike Constable
Sun Media
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