Flamenco whilst pregnant?

[chocolatesolveseverything]

Hi there,

Bit of a random question, but has anyone here had experience of doing flamenco dancing whilst pregnant?

I've been attending classes pretty regularly for the past two years and whilst they're not much of an aerobic workout, they do involve a lot of work that strengthens my arms, back and ankles. Sometimes in class I get aching muscles in these areas - but never very bad and it doesn't last long. There are very few jumps and no running around, but lots of complicated footwork, and of course, stamping . Mid-height sturdy heels are necessary to manage the steps.

I'm now 10 weeks pregnant and a new term is starting next week. By the time it ends in March, I'll be 22 weeks. My instinct is to sign up and go for it, but have emailed my teacher first for her thoughts.

Just wondered aside from her opinion though, has anyone else flamenco-ed their way through pregnancy? And in particular, how was it on your back and ankles?

[5madthings]

I think a good rule of yhimb is that if its something you were regularly doing before oregnancy its fine to continue but best not to take up a new sport/big exercise routine.

Your body will let you know if its becoming too much and you can always chat with your midwife?

I do wonder uf the i structor may say no because of insurance reasons?

[chocolatesolveseverything]

Thanks 5mad that makes sense. I hadn't considered the insurance aspect. Will wait and see what she says.

[chocolatesolveseverything]

Got a lovely response from my dance teacher today who has no problem with me rejoining class so long as I feel comfortable. Apparently she's taught and/or worked with pregnant dancers before, some of whom carried on almost to full term. Well, I'll see how far I get....!

Her email implies that she'll keep an eye on me, particularly if we're doing prolonged stamping or tight turns which might cause me problems further along. I can always skip those bits.

Apparently because flamenco works on the core of the body, it may help with posture and pelvic muscles throughout pregnancy. Sounds good!

[5madthings]

That's great :)

[Novia]

Hey - you should be fine! The only thing I would advise is to be careful with the stamping moves! From experience, even in a low heel it goes right through you! You might also find your centre of gravity is a little off...!

[chocolatesolveseverything]

Thanks Novia!