A workshop is a one-time class offering in a specific technique not always covered in-depth in our weekly classes. Whether you want to spend some time focusing on shimmies or learn a new choreography, or you can't make our weekly classes and want a one-time dose of the fun, keep an eye here for our schedule of upcoming workshops!

What should I wear or bring to class?

Students should wear comfortable workout-type clothes (no jeans please) that you can bend and stretch in. You might like to tie a scarf around your waist to better see your hip movements, and there are coin belts and hip scarves for sale in our boutique. Our wooden studio floor is cleaned regularly, so students are free to dance barefoot. It is more comfortable for most and easiest to feel the movements that way, although you may wear tennis shoes or ballet/jazz slippers for better traction if you prefer.

It is a good idea to bring your own bottle of water, as hydration is important in any fitness regiment, however we do have bottles of water available at the studio for a small donation.

You might find it a good idea to bring a notebook to write down new movements or make notes that your instructor offers, so that you can practice throughout the week.

Do I have to show my midriff in class?

 Absolutely not. Students are NOT required to show their midriff during class - what you wear is 100% up to your own comfort level! It is easier to see your movements when you aren't wearing a baggy T-shirt, and your teacher will most likely bare her belly so that you can see exactly what is going on, but no one will ask you to do so!

You might find, though, that after a few short weeks of bellydance class, you are much more comfortable in your own skin. Often, students will start classes out in baggy tshirts and loose sweatpants, but by the end of the session, they are comfortable showing off their curves, and maybe even a little tummy skin!

Are men allowed to participate? 

There are certainly male bellydancers, and many of them are a joy to watch perform!  However, as this style of dance is built on the movements of a woman's body, most male dancers learn to bellydance slightly different techniques than women. If you are a male who is interested in learning this dance, contact info@memphisraqs.com . We can set up private classes or classes catered specifically to men.

Are people allowed to view classes in session?  

Prospective students are allowed to arrange a sneak peak with the class instructors in order to preview the structure of classes before committing to a session.  However, drop-in viewers are not permitted to ensure the comfort of our students.

How physically demanding is bellydance?

The beauty of bellydance class is that the more you put into it, the more you will get out of it.  Whether you are looking for a relaxing, low-impact exercise that will be easy on the knees and back, or if you are looking to add a new aerobic workout to your exercise regiment, you'll find it at Memphis Raqs! The immediate reaction of most students is that they are using their thighs and glutes more than expected. By the end of class, you'll feel it in your abs. And we don't ignore the upper body or arms - with our elegant arm movements and ribcage movements, you'll be using muscles from head to toe.

 Our technique classes are suited individually to students, based on your personal goals. Only you know your  body, so only you can set your limits and your instructor will push you. 

Am I too _____ to bellydance?

No matter what you fill in the blank with, the answer is NO!  There is no such thing as too old, young, skinny, heavy, etc to bellydance! Memphis Raqs prides itself on creating a very open, welcoming atmosphere for all of our students. We currently have an eclectic range of students, from 14 to 79 years old... homemakers, computer analysts, physical therapists, lawyers, students, and more!  Head over to our students' page to get first-hand accounts from some of our students...