In Shape: Bollywood Fitness

The four Arts and Life editors attended Bollywood fitness Tuesday evening. It`s a class that`s brand new to campus recreation this year. To read more about their personal experiences, visit www.westerngazette.ca and look under their inShape fitness blog.

For those who don’t know, what does a Bollywood Fitness class entail?

Bollywood fitness is a cardio workout that’s based on cardio dance, so the real question is what is Bollywood dance? Bollywood dance originated from Bollywood cinema. It’s a mix of all kinds of Indian dances so it has to do with a lot of movement. It doesn’t focus on just one part of the body—it’s not so much about flexibility but discovering ways in which the body can move.

What muscle groups does it work?

It doesn’t have a medical category of muscles but there isn’t a muscle group that it leaves out. So it’s not the same moves, or the same dance every class. It’s not only about rhythms, but expression most importantly. It doesn’t just let you dance like a robot.

What should someone wear to this class?

Clothing should be casual—if you think you want to wear jeans I wouldn’t recommend it. Just wear whatever you are comfortable in. Bollywood has a stereotype so people do wear those costumes. It doesn’t matter per se, but since it’s a cardio workout, I’d say wear whatever you’re most comfortable in—loose clothing will help. No footwear is required.

Should people with certain injuries stay away from this class?

It depends where you’re injuries are. If it’s something to do with your back, or ankles you’ll have an issue. If you have a serious injury, don’t try anything for that matter.

What can people who don’t like to dance get out of this class?

My program is for non-dancers because it’s the non-dancers who want to try out Bollywood dancing— because it looks like fun. I have done lots of programs in India for non-dancers.

What would you say to encourage someone who has never been to the class to encourage them to try it out?

I think most people who are interested in the class want to try Bollywood dance, and know what Bollywood dance is. I would tell them that you don’t need a solid dance expertise. If you want to have fun and have a good workout, no inhibitions, just come.

How did you get involved in teaching Bollywood fitness?

I have been learning and teaching dance for the last 10 years. It has been one year since I got here from India, so I’m kind of fresh. I’ve been doing lots of stage shows and teaching kids over the last six years. I know all types of Indian dance, some modern and dance, and also some Indian folk. It’s a mix of all these things, so that’s why you’ll see my workout is a mixed bag. It’s for someone who’s new—so just come and try it out. You’ll love it! You can have two left feet and still do the Bollywood dance. It’s all about variety, fun and, most importantly, fitness.

To learn more about the instructor visit http://tinypaste.com/1e041

Bollywood Dance Fast Facts

-Bollywood dance originates from Bollywood (Hindi) Cinema

-the term “Bollywood” refers to the Hindi culture, art, and film industry from Bombay

-Plots of Bollywood films tend to be mellow-dramatic featuring star-crossed lovers and angry parents, corrupt politicians, and dramatic reversals of fortune

-At the turn of the 21^st century, Bollywood was producing as many as 1000 feature films

-Bollywood films can be up to 3 hours long