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How to Prepare for a Workshop

Due to the physically intensive nature and duration of Suhaila's workshops, we recommend you prepare in two or more of the following ways at least two weeks in advance of your workshop date:

  • Leg strengthening exercises including calf raises and stretching
  • 20 minutes of cardio 3-5 times a week
  • Familiarize yourself with Suhaila's format using Bellydance for Beginners with Suhaila: Fitness Fusion 4 Volume Set (Buns, Jazz, Pilates, Yoga) and with Suhaila’s warm-up by using her Stretch & Tone DVD
  • Practice finger cymbal patterns from Jamila Salimpour's Finger Cymbal CD and Finger Cymbal Manual
  • Review Level 1 Study Guide and the full certification technique manual (coming in late 2009)
  • Study the Jamila Salimpour format through her format manual, The Dance Orientale, and through the DVD Archive Series 4 volume set
  • If you are attending a level specific workshop, please review the Certification section to see the additional requirements for that workshop.
What to Bring

  • Finger cymbals (Suhaila’s signature cymbals available for purchase at the studio)
  • Yoga mat (for use during the warm-up if you need cushioning for some of the exercises on the floor)
  • Deodorant / antiperspirant (bring with you to the actual workshop to reapply as necessary)
  • Ballet or jazz shoes for dance movement (and to protect the balls of your feet if they get tender)
  • Hand towel
  • A separate set of workout clothes for each day and potentially extra clothes in case you wish to change at lunch time
  • Refillable water bottle marked with your name
  • Hip scarves, if you like, but please none with beads or coins
  • Name and phone number of your chosen emergency contact
  • Contact information for your medical insurance and physician (if applicable)
  • If you are attending a level specific workshop, please review the Certification section to see the additional requirements for that workshop.
    Check the Bay Area weather before arriving. Although it can be very warm during the afternoons, the weather can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings. We recommend dressing in layers so you can adjust as needed to keep from heating up or cooling down too quickly