Can pregnant and post-partum women belly dance?
Every body and every pregnancy is different, so, as with any exercise or activity, be sure to clear it with your OB/Gyn first. In general, for healthy women without complications or high-risk exceptions, doctors recommend moderate exercise. If you’ve been taking belly dance prior to your pregnancy, you will probably be cleared to continue so long as your comfort and condition allow. As your pregnancy progresses, certain movements or warm ups may not be advisable, and some movements may become harder to see or less comfortable, but again, it varies by person. Some of our dancers have continued taking classes right up until the time they gave birth! Generally, pregnancy is not the best time to start a new dance or exercise regimen. If you have not taken dance and are pregnant, it may be better to wait until after the baby is born. Post-partum, belly dance can be an excellent way to get back in touch with your body and regain/build strength in your abdominals and pelvic floor as your body