It is rare that we hear of Bellydance injuries but they do occur. Sometimes it’s something as careless as a person forgetting to sweep their dance space. They step on a sharp coin or fallen pin from someone’s costume and they are out with an injury for a week or more. Not fun!
Here’s a checklist of things you can do before hand to prevent injuries which can lead to time off from dance…and no one wants to be kept away from the art.
1. Never assume you are fit enough for any physical art form. Consult a physician before practicing this art.
2. Warm up!! Do not just walk into class without warming up. It is essential to prepare your body for the different types of movements and the amount of energy it takes to get through routines. Warm up before class and before a performance.
3. Cool Down… After exerting so much energy you’ll want to do something that can bring you back to center. Try cool down exercises for 5-10 minutes after each class and performance.
4. Eat light before class and light afterwards. Having a soup, vegetable sticks and avoiding sumptuous meals before class will keep you from feeling lethargic. Consult a nutritionist for the right types of foods to fuel your body before and after raqs workouts and dance practice.
5. Stay warm… Classes are often kept cool and for good reason. But keep your joints protected by wearing leg warmers (sometimes up to the knees) to keep your muscles and other ligaments from getting cold
6. Wear dance slippers and feet protectors. NuShoes are a great way to protect your feet. There are many products out there. Ask your dancemates if they have any favourites.
7. Avoid jewelry in class. Save it for rehearsal. If big dangling earrings and necklaces are not a part of your routine then save them for later. There’s a hazard in sporting lots of sharp metal and jewels while in class. Prepare your choreographies and routines to accommodate these beautiful accessories and save them for dress rehearsal, finding ways to keep chains and links from interlocking during close contact.
There are many ways to stay safe while dancing. We hope that the 7 suggestions we’ve provided will keep you out of harms way and dancing for ages. 
