As well as the traditional Burlesque shows, we’re seeing more and more themed fitness classes that are embracing the art! But how do you incorporate the raunchy Burlesque moves into your fitness choreography? Here’s a few ideas to get you started.
There are many different elements to Burlesque that can be turned into themed fitness classes, and you can incorporate just one or all of these ideas into a special one off class, or a series of sessions!
Pole Dancing is now a hugely popular form of exercise, which can also fall under the burlesque banner. Pole Dancing is a great way of toning and increasing body strength that your classes will love! Obviously the set up costs for this would be a little higher than the other forms of burlesque on offer, but speak to your venue about putting regular classes on, it might be that the investment it worth it, if it proves to be a popular class! There’s a variety of Pole Dancing training courses available across the country, where you can refine your skills before passing it on!
If you’re not feeling quite that adventurous, you could simply start to add a burlesque element to your standard aerobics class choreography. Adding a few shimmies, bumps and grinds to a slower BPM than you’d normally choose can take your sessions to a whole new level! Take a look at Zoe McNulty’s ‘Stiletto Workout’ for some great choreography ideas for burlesque routines!
Chair dancing is a good, non-impactive way to introduce a burlesque feel. It’s a good full body workout that can be fun and challenging at the same time. Watch this video with Pure Energy presenter Lisa D to get a few chair dancing ideas:
As you can see in the video, Lisa is using a bowler hat as a prop. Props are a perfect way to help your participants develop confidence in your burlesque classes, as it gives them something to focus on and hold, and even sometimes hide behind! It also enhances the fun element of the workout!
Prop ideas for burlesque classes are limitless, from bowler hats and canes, to fans, feather boas, tutus, and even masks! The list is endless, you could even build up to a fully costumed class, encouraging your members to try out corsets and stilettos! This is probably not for everyone though, and might scare some participants off, so make sure you introduce the idea gently if you’re going to go down that route! It’s also a good idea to promote ‘ladies only’ classes which will allow the girls to let their inhibitions go!
For more burlesque ideas and courses take a look at www.ministryofburlesque.com and to try out your own choreography ideas, download Pure Energy’s Burlesque release, a double album compilation of tracks with a variety of BPMs that are perfect for all kinds of raunchy routines!
