A balancing sword could be a dramatic addition to your belly dance repertoire – it’s a great way to catch audience attention at the start, even if you do not use it in your entire routine.
A good belly dance sword is expensive, so it’s very crucial to select the right one from the start. Unless you have some training in sword and know how to try it out before you buy, never get a sword that isn’t specially designed for bellydancing.
The reason is the balance point. A sword that’s been designed for bellydancingwill have its balance point towards the centre of the sword, so that the hilt and the point hang reasonably uniformly on either side of your head. That leaves as much clear space as feasible under the sword for hand movements, without the risk of knocking the sword off your head!
Swords designed as collectibles or for swordplay often have a balance point up close to the hilt (handle). That means the handle will sit too close to your head, while the blade will project a long way out to one side – if it’s's an exceedingly curved blade like a scimitar, the sharpened point can hang down past your shoulder, and will consistently get in the way of your arm on that side. So make sure the sword you’re going to buy is a ” belly dance sword ” or a “balancing sword ” prior to handing over your cash.
If your sword arrives with a sharpened blade, please dull it before dancing with it. Even a blunt sword can be dangerous – let’s not even think about dropping asharpened one! Some decorative swords have never been sharp – they’ve a thicker rounded edge instead, which is more safe. However if you’re going to be dancing near your audience, don’t forget that these swords do not look at all dangerous, which dremoves the “thrill factor ” of your performance.
If you are purchasing a sword that doesn’t have its own case or scabbard, make certain to buy or make one to keep your sword in the absolute best condition. A good sword will serve you well for a long while – and if you need to upgrade, a well-cared-for blade will bring an excellent resale price from some other up-and-coming belly dancer!
If you’d like to learn more about caring for and using your sword, one of the best bellydance DVD’s on sword is Sword and Shamadan by Princess Farhana.
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