Dance and drums to perk you up
Expo presents novel ways to keep fit and stay healthy while having fun too
PETALING JAYA: Two unique performances featuring dance and drums will entertain visitors to the Star Health Expo.
The Afro Brazilian dance Maculelê will be performed by the Afro-Brazilian Collective Malaysia (ABCM) from 11.45am till 12.45pm on Saturday, July 14.
The dance involves a number of people gathered in a circle called a roda. Each person brandishes a pair of long sticks called grimas. As the Maculelê rhythm plays on the atabaque (a tall, wooden, Afro-Brazilian hand drum), the dancers in the circle begin rhythmically striking the sticks together.
The high-intensity fitness dance movement resembles “mock stick combat” which is commonly seen in traditional African-derived dances, as they have a common root.
More recently, popular franchise exercise companies have added Maculelê-derived moves to their routines.
Maculelê is an all body workout which bolsters muscle development, stamina, balance, control, speed, power and flexibility.
“From a fitness perspective, Maculelê is both fun and functional,” said practitioner Kennedy Michael.
An expressive, high-energy cardio activity which can be practised solo or in groups with the addition of primal drumming, Kennedy said the energetic dance can also be performed by people of all ages and abilities.
Meanwhile, Drum Circle for Wellness will be performed by REP.Presents! between 4.30pm and 5.30pm the same day.
Drum Circles are a rhythmbased activity which uses a variety of percussion instruments and drums to empower participants to create beautiful, spontaneous rhythms.
Besides bringing people together, Drum Circle promotes relaxation, stress relief and a sense of belonging among those involved. No music background is required and anyone can participate.
Star Health Expo 2018 with the theme “Get Fit. Live Great!” aims to inspire Malaysians to lead a healthy lifestyle and adopt a holistic approach, including physical and mental health, emotional well-being and financial wellness.
The expo is organised by I.Star Events Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Star Media Group Bhd with Great Eastern Life as the exclusive event partner.
It will be held in Halls 1 to 3 of the Mid Valley Exhibition Centre from July 13 to July 15. It is open from 10am to 7pm and admission is free. For more information, call 03-7967 1388 (ext 1541/1097) or visit www.facebook.com/ starhealthexpo.