Katy Carmichael

At the moment all of our regular weekly classes are for women only. This is because many of our students would either find it culturally unacceptable or simply uncomfortable to dance in front of men. We do run some workshops that are available to men (especially Egyptian folklore which is great fun!) and are very happy to run mixed groups in workplaces, social clubs etc if that's requested.

We never perform for all male groups (for obvious reasons) or teach all male groups on a one off basis. Some men's groups however might like to learn some of the men's dances to impress their workmates or friends so we are always happy to help with that!

That depends! If you already danced or did other forms of exercise for your core muscles (yoga, pilates etc) then yes as long as you have not been advised against it.

If you did not exercise before pregnancy then our public classes are not suitable for you - you can still benefit from belly dance but will need to talk to a teacher about some individual sessions (or perhaps a few sessions with other pregnant mums?). Post natal belly dance is very much recommended though!

Belly dance is specifically designed to benefit women's bodies - it helps with period pain, conception (by relaxing the body as well as making this more fun ......!), pregnancy, labour and post natal recovery. However, all women are individuals and any complications need to be discussed with your teacher before you start.

Our teachers are briefed as to the changes in women's bodies during pregnancy so can advise in general terms which moves are unadvisable but full medical advice should be taken if you are at all concerned.

Obviously this depends on your condition and what advice you have had from your doctor or other health professional. If you are concerned you can either phone the teacher before you come to class and discuss it with her or come along beforehand so you can talk about what movements would help or hinder you.

Most of our venues have space for prospective students to watch a class if you'd prefer.

Belly dance is excellent for assisting with mild joint and back issues and often more severe ones but this does depend on what's actually causing the problem. Most back problems are caused by postural issues and dance can certainly help these!

Wear comfortable clothes that you won't get too hot in (it is exercise!) and you can move easily in. There's no need to buy anything special to dance in. Most new students come along in jogging pants and a t-shirt or a long skirt and t-shirt. Jeans are not suitable as they are too restrictive.

We dance barefoot so, unless there's a reason why you need to keep footwear on, don't worry about special shoes. Belly dance is about natural movement and it really helps if your feet are free to move and spread as Nature intended!

Resist the temptation to come along in jingly belts - too many students jingling drives teachers mad! And you won't concentrate on your dancing if you have something that's such fun to jiggle about with! Save these for party nights - they are fun!

No - all of our classes are drop in so find the one you want to attend and turn up a few minutes before it's due to start and introduce yourself to the teacher.