Flamenco dancing originated from the music, from Spain, also called flamenco.
The dance is characterized by a dance routine coupled with clapping.
Branching out from Spain, it gained popularity in Europe and is now being taught all over the globe.
Now, it is even more popular in Japan than almost anywhere else.
The dance got its name from Spain's native bird, the Greater Flamingo.
The dance actually obtained its roots from the Romany dances.
It has similar characteristics to its older sister the Kathak dance, which is still found in northern India.
This is also where the Romany originated.
Still some believe that Flamenco's origin is from Spain because of its resemblance to a flamingo's movements.
This dance is characterized by its sophisticated style and energy with a sense of passion and sensuality.
It has been passed down the generations and is now often improvised.
The dance style has a concrete set of routines and can be learned in a class.
This makes it possible for anyone, young or old, 2 left feet or an experienced dancer, to learn it successfully, over time perhaps.
Taking flamenco lessons is definitely the best way to go about learning through.
Your weight and figure is not a big deal, anyone can dance flamenco regardless of age and fitness levels.
The key is to feel and look sensual.
However, learning it can be pretty difficult for a first time dancer because it has a lot of complicated routines.
So to be able to learn it fast, beginners can try out other simpler dance routines and styles first.
For your clothes or attire for dancing flamenco, it is appropriate to wear a top that will not restrict your arm movements, and this also applies to the rest of your clothing.
You need to have free leg movements so as to be able to produce a clean tapping sound with your feet.
It is also not advisable to wear sneakers because they can't make the exact sound needed to dance flamenco.
In this dance, the tapping sound is an integral part.
Without the tapping sound, it is not the flamenco at all.
So to get the best sound, shoes with solid soles are recommended.
Your shoes also need to have smooth soles to facilitate easier turning and pivoting.
Never use rubber shoes as it will only produce a squeaking sound or no sound at all.
Your instructor should tell you all this in your dance classes.
Women are the most common fans of the flamenco dance, although some men also dance it.
There are many benefits acquired from the flamenco dance.
One of which is its effect of relieving stress.
It also gives women a power boost because it is known to be strong and passionate and can give women a feeling of freedom and power.