Interview conducted by Lorna Sloukji
Bellyfit® is one of the latest trends in the fitness industry, fusing ancient and modern practices of dance and movement. Learn more about Bellyfit and how you can become an instructor as Alice Bracegirdle, founder and CEO of Bellyfit® shares the scoop in this exclusive interview.
What exactly happens in a Bellyfit® Class?
All of our Bellyfit Instructors are trained to deliver a full body, spiritual, extraordinary exercise experience, offered in a safe, effective, and fun group fitness format. Each class is a seamless fusion of movements inspired by the science of Western fitness, the style and beauty of cultural dance, and the potent spiritual practices and philosophies from the East.
In the first half hour of the class, we get the sweat flowing and the heart pounding with fun, easy-to-learn cardio moves infused with the ancient and beautiful fundamentals of Belly Dance, Bollywood, Bhangra, and African Dance. Aerobics with flavour!
During the second half of the class we sculpt, tone, and tighten with pilates-inspired core work, a deep, yet relaxing Hatha yoga-inspired stretch, and mindful Mudra meditation. Levels and layers are always given, so no matter what fitness level participants are at, everyone gets the workout they need. I have 75-year-old women and 25 year-old-women side by side in my classes, and every age in-between, and they are all smiling and sweating buckets. It is truly awesome.
The success of the Bellyfit class format is in the fusion. Specifically chosen, complimentary elements come together within the framework of a traditional group fitness class. In one hour, participants experience a journey that is a perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, all in an easy-to-follow, fun, and seamless routine.
See more about Bellyfit here.
How can fitness professionals benefit by acquiring such a certification?
The Bellyfit Instructor Initiation and Training (BFIIT) Weekend Course offers 20 packed hours of hands-on, detailed, inspiring, and fun learning. It is a truly unique fitness training course in the industry today, not only because it is for women only, but because it goes deeper than the physical body and into the energetic/spiritual/emotional body as well.
Participants will learn the fundamentals of the Bellyfit System, including class format, practical movement (choreography), philosophy and business practice, and will also get a window into some wisdom about female anatomy and energetic systems that are not taught in our culture today - but should be. The training will prepare participants to be a Bellyfit Instructor and also invite them to take their own empowerment and integrity as a woman to a new level.
We simply cannot meet the demand for classes at this point. I get e-mails every day from women across Canada and internationally wanting to find a Bellyfit class in their community. The women of the world are calling for Bellyfit and the industry needs more instructors.
The course also offers CECs for certified pros in every province.
See FAQ here.
Tell us about the cultural foundations of Bellyfit®
Cultural diversity is one of the main inspirations for the Bellyfit System. I believe that we all share the same roots on this planet and that we must now share our wisdom. Much of this wisdom is preserved in our music, dance, ritual, and prayer. The Bellyfit choreographers draw inspiration from many cultural dances and practices (particularly from the Middle East, India, and West Africa) and are always expanding their horizons to include more music and moves that not only strengthen the body, but also the being.
See more about the various cultural inspirations here
What are the ‘Spirit Benefits’ of Bellyfit®?
There are many benefits of the Bellyfit class system that range from the very superficial physical to the very subtle energetic. What I hear most from women is that they love the intense workout for the muscles and cardiovascular system, but also the spiritual connectedness gained through mindful movement, breath awareness, and subtle energetic activation. These are some other possible spirit benefits that participants may experience:
* build community by connecting with other women who also want to have fun and improve their fitness level
* be uplifted and feel great in your skin
* feel feminine and sensual, yet powerful in a non-objectified way
* enjoy a musical journey designed to enhance your experience and open your heart
* be inspired to be the best woman you can be
* sweat your stress away
See more benefits here.
For full details on Bellyfit®, instructor training schedules, exciting events, and more, please visit www.bellyfit.ca.