Tag Archive for greektown

| March 24, 2011
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Vegan & Vegetarian Options At Taste of the Danforth?

Originally focused on traditional Greek food, the Taste of the Danforth festival has become a mixture of the wide variety of cuisines that the neighbourhood offers. On my first visit to the festival this summer, I was unsure about whether I would be able to find something vegetarian for myself to eat. There were many Greek restaurants set up on the street selling spanikopita, and an Indian restaurant offering samosas.

I knew that most of the Greek restaurants in the area serve vegetarian dishes on their menus, but I didn’t see that being offered to the street crowd. I ended up going into a Greek takeout place to get a veggie pita and Greek fries. It was good, but not really worth waiting in line for.

Marissa, a recent vegan and long-time vegetarian, had a similar experience when she attended the festival this summer: “I only really got to see what was available on the Friday evening, but there was very little choice that I found. Everybody has souvlaki and spanikopita, which I’m sure are great, but I’m also sure that they’re not vegan. I wound up getting a table at The Friendly Greek. They had a vegetarian meal on their menu – it was rice, roasted potatoes, and salad. Decent, but I felt like I was missing out on the “Greek” part of the meal.”

When asked if she would go back, she said that she would because she enjoyed the atmosphere and it was still something fun to do on the weekend.

Something that both Marissa and I wondered was why the vegetarian restaurants on the street weren’t participating, or if they were, where were they? To answer these questions, I spoke to three vegetarian-friendly businesses: The Big Carrot, Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant, and Tea Tree Cafe & Eatery. All of these businesses are listed with the Toronto Vegetarian Association.

The Big Carrot

According to The Big Carrot, their business has always participated in the festival. In the beginning they tried to offer their own unique vegetarian street fare but they found that, although popular, mini pizzas and shrimp kebabs took more effort than they were worth. More recently they have been selling organic smoothies and ice cream cones. “We find that while our store sales suffer over that weekend due to no parking and crowding issues, it is still important to participate and take advantage of the street presence and let the masses know that we exist, otherwise your business gets lost in the crowds.  We just don’t do the labour intensive stuff anymore. It’s not worth it.”

Tea Tree Cafe

Erin Pim, the proprietor of Tea Tree Cafe, had a slightly different experience with the festival. Because her restaurant is located east of Jones Avenue it is not within the festival limits, but this did not prevent her from benefitting from the increased traffic. She used this to her advantage by offering discounts and free vegan cupcakes with purchases to get people to try her fare.

Outside of the festival, people come to her cafe because they are looking for a healthy alternative on the Danforth. When I asked why she chose to start her business in the area, she explained that it was a good space in a good neighbourhood. The Danforth community was the place that best fit her criteria.

Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant

Despite its strong Greek roots, the neighbourhood supports new businesses that find their niche and participate in the festival. Such was the case with Dukem Ethiopian restaurant. After opening six years ago, Dukem has made the Danforth their home. Dukem invites festival-goers to their open house where they can experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine and the famous coffee ceremony. They find that people at the festival are often looking for a variety of cuisines and are open to more than just Greek food.

As in many cultures, Greek celebrations are heavy on the meat, so it isn’t exactly realistic to expect Greek restaurants to cater to vegans and vegetarians at the festival. But for those who still wish to participate without eating meat or animal by-products, options are there, though you may have to look beyond Greek food to find them. Next summer, I plan to try out the full range of what the Danforth has to offer, and won’t limit myself by seeing the area as exclusively Greek.

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| March 24, 2011
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6 Things to do at a Farmers’ Market

Berries

When the sun is shining on a bright Saturday morning and you have a need for fresh fruits and veggies, a quaint outdoor market like the one at Withrow Park can be your go-to place.

And while wandering the stalls in this beautiful park is great, why not do something different during your conventional outing? We talked with the organizers of the Withrow Park Farmers’ Market for a fresh take on this old-fashioned bazaar.

1. Discover Your Taste

Though you know a particular stall has the best carrots in the city, why not try something that you’ve yet to have the pleasure of tasting? As Constance Dykun of Monforte Dairy, a market vendor, says, “Quite often if I see something on someone’s table that I don’t recognize, I’ll wander over and ask, ‘What is that?’” Even if you discover that white carrots aren’t likely to be on next week’s grocery list, you had the courage to set out on a new food adventure.

2. Won’t you be my neighbour?

Because the Withrow market is an initiative created by local residents who wanted to provide their neighbours with healthy foodstuffs, the sense of community here is strong. So, why not intensify this neighbourliness and meet someone new? Laurel Fortin, owner of Small Potatoes, one of the many vendors at Withrow, explains that “it’s just a great place to meet people.” She adds, “It’s a real community-builder.”

3. Feast Like a King

After perusing the many stalls at this market, lay down a checkered blanket, plant yourself in the grass, and chomp on your recent purchases. The Withrow Park Farmers’ Market has it all –from fruits to breads to cheeses to sweets– everything you’ll need to indulge in a delectable feast. Another thing to make you feel good: In line with emergent green movements, all of the fare is locally-produced and locally-owned.

4. Make a Date

Whether you rendezvous with your beau or meet up with an old friend, Withrow is the perfect location for a gathering. As Roberta Stimac, one of the founding members of the market says, “People meet with friends and neighbours. People from all over the neighbourhood come to feel welcome.” After wandering the grounds, sit yourself on a charming bench and chat, gush, or gossip to your heart’s content!

5. Swap Recipes

“I’ve cooked all kinds of wonderful food at home after hearing about recipes from market attendees,” says Laurel. “I feel like I’ve got my own test kitchen!” And you can too. Just talk to vendors and other market-goers and you’ll go home with delicious fares, as well as the know-how to make them into a yummy masterpiece.

6. Make it Last

The gorgeous park setting is not only great for a wonderful bazaar, but there are many other events to take part in. “It’s nice to go out and really make a day of the market,” says Roberta. Bring a soccer ball, your bathing suit, and even your pup, and get involved in the other amazing activities that Withrow has to offer! But don’t forget the SPF if you’re going to spend a day in the sun!

The market is tentatively set to reopen May 21, 2011.

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| March 15, 2011
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Lippert’s 3rd Annual Music Festival Approaches This April

*Sponsored Content* 

Lippert Music Centre Inc. was founded in 1957 by Joe Lippert, who believed “every person has the potential to learn an instrument and enjoy a life-long love affair with music.” Setting up shop in the Pape and Danforth area of Toronto, Lippert Music has been a vibrant part of this community ever since.

During our interview, Charleen Beard, née Lippert, details the history leading to Lippert’s longevity. “I joined forces with my father in 1980, beginning with a teaching role. Increasing my responsibilities in 1990 I began to hire the other teachers to join us. I always look for teachers who love music and who are able to impart this to their students.” In 1996 Beard took over all duties as her parents officially retired. “Parents don’t really retire do they? And thank goodness, as mom and dad have always been close by to offer their advice,” she explains.

How does a music school remain in operation from one generation to the next, consistently growing both in size and reputation? The answer lies in that guiding philosophy of Joe’s. “Our teaching standard is very high, and we have an exceptional staff of 30. Our teachers are at the heart of our success, and while I do not insist that our teachers have a performing career outside of the school, many of them do. We have staff with burgeoning international careers and several who perform regularly throughout the Golden Horseshoe. Others have CD recordings to their credit.”

Beard adds that the support Lippert has received from the parents for nearly six decades is crucial. “We have been blessed to have such supportive parents over the years. This is integral to the progress that our students show.”

So what styles of music are taught at Lippert? “We teach classical, jazz, show tunes, rock, the popular hits of today, and we teach all these styles on guitar, piano, voice, the string and woodwind instruments, and drums. In addition to the practical, our staff believes strongly in teaching the theoretical. It really does pay dividends.” Also offered are group classes, including Lippert’s String Ensemble, Musical Theatre Classes and the exciting full day summer camps; — School of Hard Rock and Music Theatre. “Music is a social activity meant to be shared,” Beard enthuses.

Where does Lippert go in the next 50 years? Beard laughs. “Well, I won’t speak to the next 50, but in the next few we will continue with the Lippert Music Festival, which launched three years ago. The original intent was to allow Lippert students the opportunity to perform for an audience prior to their [Royal Conservatory] exams, but this year students from other music schools as well as private studios are encouraged to participate, to expand their musical camaraderie and share with their peers in the community.” It’s free to the public and will be happening on April 2 and 3, 2011.

For further information on Lippert Music Centre, you may visit them at lippertmusic.com, on Facebook, or call 416-425-9933 and ask for Charleen. She loves to talk music!

 

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| February 20, 2011
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Get Me to the Greek Bakery – Review of Athens Pastries Pies

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Greek pastries in Toronto, then look no further: Athens Pastries Pies, set in the heart of Greektown, supplies traditional Greek dishes to residents and visitors of the Danforth and surrounding neighbourhoods. As long-time staff member Nina Koumarianos says, “Come enjoy food from Greek culture.”

The Atmosphere

Although narrow in dimension like almost every other bakery, certain aspects of Athens Pastries Pies set it apart. For instance, it provides both indoor and outdoor seating, and its open counter space allows customers to watch as staff members prepare their pastries right before their eyes.

The distinguishing Mediterranean décor that graces the walls and ceiling suits the establishment perfectly in its simple but elegant designs of vibrant blues, greens, browns, oranges, and reds; it all flows together, creating a very soothing environment. Lively Mediterranean music plays softly in the background, discernable but not overwhelming, which allows for easy conversation if you’re dining with friends or a peaceful respite if dining alone.

While Athens Pastries Pies has a mostly Greek clientele, it nonetheless seems like a popular place for couples, families, and students of all kinds to come and unwind for a while. Staff members always provide fast, friendly, and informative service, making the customer feel welcome for however long they want to stay.

The Menu

While the menu at Athens Pastries Pies is limited to only a few items, it encompasses some of the most popular and traditional Greek foods.

Their Entrées include their well-known spinach, cheese, and meat pies decently priced at $3.20 each and a cheese pocket – precisely what it sounds like – for $2.65. The pies are the perfect combination of warm, flakey pastry and moist, flavourful filling.

For dessert, you can try the custard pie at $3.20 a slice or their most popular item, honey dough balls, which sell at $3.00 a dozen. Dipped in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon, these spongy doughnut-like pastries are simply scrumptious – not to mention a popular choice at Taste of the Danforth. The bakery’s signature phyllo pastry dough is available for customers to buy, and Nina proudly maintains that “our products are made every hour, so they’re always guaranteed fresh.”

Athens Pastries Pies also offers a variety of different coffees, making it a distinctive combination of bakery and café. If you’re not into coffee, then the menu also includes soft drinks, hot chocolate, beer, and wine.

The Details

Athens Pastries Pies is located at 509 Danforth Avenue, where TTC commuters have easy access to nearby subway stations at both Chester and Pape Avenues while drivers can simply park out front. Customers are welcome to dine in or get their Greek to go, but payment is cash only. Doors open from 9 am to 11 pm Sunday through Thursday and from 9 am to midnight Friday through Saturday.

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| February 17, 2011
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Make the Most of Family Day With These 5 Activities

Family Swim

Family Day is celebrating its fourth anniversary this year, and although we all enjoy a long weekend, there are still many of us who haven’t quite figured out how to celebrate the occasion.

This year, why not approach the day in the spirit it was intended by spending that free time bonding with the people that matter most in your life?

We’ve given you a head start by providing a few unique ideas for how to have fun with your family this February 21st – or any other day of the year, for that matter!

Spend Time with Grandparents

Family day isn’t just about the immediate family. How about a trip to Grandma and Grandpa’s place? Find ways to get the kids excited about the visit by planning an activity so that they don’t end up snoozing while the adults chat. Suggest they bring their favourite book and have them read it with their grandparents. Or, get the entire family involved in an arts & crafts project – try making a modern day quilt, no sewing required! Have each person draw on their own square piece of paper, then tape them all together once everyone’s done to create a fun and memorable addition to your fridge.

Make a Splash

The weather is slowly getting warmer, but you still won’t be wearing shorts anytime soon. That doesn’t mean you can’t go for a swim though! The East York Community Centre is opening up their indoor pool facilities from 2-5PM on February 21 for a special Family Day Leisure Swim. Pack your towels and swimsuits and head down to 1081 ½ Pape Avenue.

Help Another Family

This Family Day, consider donating to a family in need. Though there are limited volunteer options for young children, FamilyCares is an organization with great ideas for teaching kids about giving to the less fortunate. Try making a Charity Chest by following their easy steps below, and visit the FamilyCares website for more fun projects that will help the needy and involve the whole family.

(1) Find a box that will fit in the corner of your kitchen

(2) With your kids, decorate the box however you wish. The more creative, the better!

(3) Whenever a family member feels inspired to contribute something they can place it in the box. Canned food, used clothing that is in good condition, toys, and books are all great ideas.

(4) Hold monthly meetings to decide where your family wants to contribute the items.

Bring Back Family Game Night

We could all use a break from computers, game consoles, and television sets. Turn all those gadgets off, grab some chips or popcorn, and bring out the board games! You’ll be surprised how much fun you can have. Pictionary, Clue, Snakes & Ladders, Candy Land, The Game of Life, Jenga, and Twister are usually crowd pleasers for a variety of ages.

Cook Together

Involving kids in the making of a meal – from planning the menu to shopping and preparing the food – can be a great learning experience. It can also take some of the pressure off Mom and Dad for a change!

Doug DiPasquale, a nutritionist at the Big Carrot, recommends one-pot meals, which are easy to make with children of any age. They also allow you to take advantage of the few local produce options that can be found on the shelves this time of year, such as root vegetables. “Something like sweet potatoes are great in a stew,” says DiPasquale.

Try this recipe for Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew.

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| February 17, 2011
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4 Musical Acts You Can Find On The Danforth

David Celia

by Jordon Knoll and Maya Bajic

Wondering what the Danforth music scene can offer you? It turns out, plenty. From singer-songwriter, to smooth jazz and pop, there truly is something for everyone.

Jazz Response Unit

A frequent performer at Danforth’s The Only Café, Jazz Response Unit play a light-hearted and accessible form of smooth jazz.

This trio consists of a skilled pianist, bass player, and guitarist. Each player grooves and jives off the others well, creating an accessible yet nuanced sound, well within established genre norms.

The perfect complement to a relaxed night out, Jazz Response Unit will be performing February 16 and 23 at The Only Café.

Janet Whiteway

Drawing influence from the likes of Elvis Costello, Joni Mitchell, and Rufus Wainwright, Janet Whiteway’s sonic palette is an eclectic mix of styles from folk to pop to jazz. Uplifting and optimistic in tone, Janet Whiteway’s music could perhaps be best described as hopeful.

Well known to the Danforth community for her frequent performances, Whiteway and her band recently released their debut album Pure Sunshine. Look for her at The Only Café February 22.

David Celia

“Well, I never really thought I’d write a country song/Sing it with an accent and a Southern drawl/I was born in the ‘burbs and started on Judas Priest.” So goes the first verse of David Celia’s “I’m Not Texan” from his latest album I Tried. Equal parts parody and pastiche, Celia’s sound recalls Neil Young and The Beatles while also putting a sardonic twist on the folk-comedy form made popular by The Flight of the Conchords.

His latest music video for “Evidently True” is a case in point:  featuring Celia playing an empty venue with a lone corpse serving as his backup band. Toronto born and based, David Celia can be seen at the Dora Keogh on the Danforth February 16 as well as at the Winterfolk Festival on February 18.

Kathleen Gorman

Pianist-Vocalist-Composer Kathleen Gorman treads the fine line between jazz-indulgence and pop-accessibility. Adeptly maneuvering from the cool sensibility of the light jam evidenced in “Rialto”, to the boldly expressive pop-piano ballad of “The River is Wide”, Gorman is a rising talent.

Coming off the 2009 release of the self-produced debut album “Brand New Day”, Kathleen Gorman is in the midst of recording the much-anticipated follow-up. But she can’t spend all of her time in the studio, look for her upcoming performance at the Ten Feet Tall Bistro on the Danforth on February 19 at 8:30.

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| February 10, 2011
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5 Ways a Naturopathic Doctor Can Help You

A high-profile CEO works in downtown Toronto.  He is experiencing strange symptoms — fatigue, muscle pain, headaches, and heartburn— the cause of which is unknown.  His doctor runs some tests and tells him nothing is wrong with him.  The doctor does instruct him, however, to slow down, and tells him that his stressful lifestyle is harming his body.  The man knows that it is impossible for him to slow down.  What should he do?

A naturopathic doctor (ND) might be able to help.

Stress Relief

According to Jennifer Tanner, ND,a naturopathic doctor at Kinetica Health Group, located at 179 Danforth Avenue, stress affects most people. Yet, knowing how to manage stress is key.  “I would prescribe him botanicals and vitamins to help him adapt to the stress in his life, so that his body would release less cortisol [the stress hormone] and function at an optimal level,” says Tanner of our CEO.

Jennifer Tanner, ND

The solution is not to avoid stress altogether—or to drastically change your lifestyle—but to learn how to adapt to the stress, so its negative impact on you is lessened.  “I have helped people balance an ideal stress-level with a high-paced job,” says Tanner.

Naturopathic Doctors VS. Medical Doctors?

According to the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors, naturopathic medicine is a “primary health care system that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. The naturopathic philosophy is to stimulate the healing power of the body and treat the underlying cause of disease.”

Some of the treatment methods that naturopathic doctors use are clinical nutrition, botanical and homeopathic medicine, and traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture.

Naturopathic doctors can help people in conjunction with, not in opposition to, medical doctors (MDs).  “You can see an ND for any condition you see an MD for,” says Tanner.

Sylvi Martin, ND, who works at Fusion Chiropractic and Integrative Health, located at 735 Danforth Avenue, adds that naturopathic and medical doctors learn how to diagnose patients in similar ways—NDs just have different ways of treating illness.

Martin believes that it is important to keep the lines of communication open between MDs and NDs.  This means that patients must let their MDs know that they are seeing an ND.  “I send a letter to my patient’s medical doctors [about treatment, etc.],” says Martin. This helps build a strong level of professionalism and an open, cordial relationship between both doctors.

“These two professionals need to share diagnostic test results and other information with each other,” says Martin.

She often refers patients back to their MDs when deemed necessary—such as for certain diagnostic tests.

What does an ND do?

There are many ways that a naturopathic doctor can help people.  Their role differs from a medical doctor’s role; yet, it can complement medical treatment. Sylvi says that her role is to ask what a client can be doing at home.  For example, she looks at diet and lifestyle changes that can be implemented to improve someone’s life.  “My feedback to patients guides them, and teaches them how to maintain health on their own,” says Martin.

Sylvi Martin, ND

This involves “broad health promotion” through education, and addressing environment factors (such as stress and diet).

“I am a life coach—not just a doctor,” says Teresa Tsui, ND, whose office is at 658 Danforth Avenue.

Prevent Disease

Boosting your immune system and eating a healthy diet can prevent illness.  Jennifer has found that their diet is the hardest thing for people to change. By motivating people to change their diets Jennifer helps them understand how diet can cause disease and how diet can make an existing health condition better or worse.

Jennifer recalls a time when a woman came to her seeking treatment for her health concerns.  She was drinking 15 Monster drinks a day. “I brought in a bag of sugar to show her that that was how much sugar she was eating in a day,” says Tanner.  By greatly decreasing the amount of sugar she ate daily, her health began to improve.

“Sugar suppresses the immune system which makes you more prone to illness,” says Tsui.

Why You Might Choose to See a Naturopathic Doctor:

1) Optimize your diet.

Diet is often the most difficult habit for people to change, yet a healthy diet can help your body prevent disease.

2) Detoxify your system.

“I can help your body remove toxins faster so that your body doesn’t store them, which can prevent you from developing diseases in the future,” says  Tanner.

3) Get your questions answered.

A medical doctor only has around 15 minutes to spend with you—a naturopathic doctor can spend 30 to 90 minutes with you per visit.

4) Grow a healthy baby.

“Naturopathy is fabulous for pregnancy —if you give each cell the most nutrients [possible] you give your baby the best start,” says Tanner.

5) Review your supplements and medications.

A naturopathic doctor can teach you about the side effects of your supplements and medications, plus help you decrease these side effects.

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| February 3, 2011
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Spring Fashion Preview for On The Danforth Magazine

A behind-the-scenes look at our fashion photoshoot from the upcoming spring issue of On The Danforth Magazine. It took place at Brayham Contemporary Art  (1318 Queen Street East).

Photography by Jason Hudson (www.jasonhudson.com)
Makeup by Amanda Wood (www.amandawood.ca)
Hair by Morgan Servinis (Bob and Paige Salon)
Models: Maegan McWade and Camille Stopps.

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| February 3, 2011
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How Much Is Your Home Really Worth?

Buying a home can be the biggest decision of your life. As an investment, it’s generally considered safe, but with so much at stake —not only finances, but also a huge expenditure of time and energy— a lot of people approach buying a home with trepidation.

While real estate is inherently unpredictable, there are a few factors you can weigh to judge the prudence of a particular purchase. The fact that interest rates have remained low by historical standards for years, that Toronto’s population grows by the tens of thousands each year, driving up prices across all areas of the city equally, but also other factors that affect the Danforth more acutely.

Location

It’s a truism that it all comes down to location, but what matters when considering location in the Danforth area? There’s the obvious: proximity to the subway, downtown, and the DVP. A 2010 study showed Toronto has the longest commute times in North America, throwing a spotlight on the importance of location. But there’s also the purely mental aspect of East York’s separation from downtown by the bridge.

Broadview is only three stops east of Yonge, and yet it’s considered the east end — while three stops west of Yonge, at Spadina, you’re still very much downtown. The Danforth area doesn’t share the same urban vibe, despite being so close to the downtown core. While this has traditionally depressed home prices in the area, as more young families look for homes, the combination of proximity and a less urban feel will play to the Danforth’s strengths.

Demographics

“East York, historically has had the largest population of retirees,” says local broker Anna Michaelidis. ”Now, obviously, that’s turning over into young families.” However, studies suggest that while young families are snapping up detached and semi-detached homes, empty-nesters are not quite ready for condos. Sixty-one per cent of baby boomers who plan to downsize to a smaller home are looking for a semi-detached, the most common type of home in the Danforth area. That competition —from boomers looking to move to a smaller home, to young professionals looking to upgrade from a condo when their children are born— can only drive Danforth prices up.

Flipping

Real estate, probably more than any other type of investment, goes through cycles. People looking to flip homes for profit are always on the lookout for a deal, but there has to be room for investment. ”I can’t tell you how many calls I get from people wanting to do that,” says Dean Da Silva, a Danforth area sales representative. “There’s umpteen shows on TV with all these people flipping houses, and it’s crazy!”

With condos, buyers are very limited in the type of improvements they can make, but with detached homes, anything is possible —something not lost on buyers.  “These dump houses are selling for so much money now.  It’s mindboggling!” says Da Silva. “Everybody wants to renovate their own house. You’re getting these crazy bidding wars for these houses that are just so rundown, because people are like, ‘Oh, I want to flip, I want it to be raw, I want to do everything.’”

The macro-cycle of neighbourhood renewal depends on these investors. As Michaelidis explains, “Everything’s on a cycle, from the peak, and then it comes down, and it starts rejuvenating, and then it comes back up. You get places that are more rundown, somebody picks them up, they renovate them, they flip them, they increase the value, and they help increase the value for the whole neighbourhood, and that starts the trend of renovating.” East York is early in this cycle, meaning gains from real estate investment here may outpace the rest of Toronto.

Comparisons

Ultimately, the best way to gauge the value of a home is to compare it to others in similar condition in the area. While appraisers can estimate the value of the structure, “You can’t add up the bricks and mortar,” says Da Silva. ”Market value is basically what one seller is willing to sell their house for and what another person is willing to buy it for.” Checking what neighbours sold their homes for —the more recently the better—is a very effective way to determine the value of your home. Whether you’re making a bid or thinking of selling, gauging your home’s value is the first step to making the right decision.

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| January 13, 2011
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2 Fun Ways To Get In Shape This Year

Once the Christmas season ends, we inevitably find ourselves making New Year’s resolutions about our bodies. We spend our early mornings and evenings sweating it out at the gym, logging kilometers on that treadmill to nowhere.

But by February or March that gym membership begins to get a little dusty. Just like any endeavor you undertake, in order to be successful in a new exercise regime, you should love what you are doing. This season, we suggest stepping off that treadmill and trying something new right here in your neighbourhood.

Shake It Till you Break It

Belly dancing comes from ancient Egypt and is thought to be the oldest form of dancing.  At Danforth and Broadview is Hannan’s Belly Dancing Studio, which offers classes for participants of all ages and all abilities.

 

Belly Dancing Gala Performance

 

Belly dancing is a low impact exercise that anyone can participate in, but don’t think that means you won’t see results. “You can expect to see greater definition on your arms, legs, core, butt, and so much more, giving you the ultimate workout experience,” says Artistic Director Nada El Masriya.

She believes that belly dancing is a great way to get healthy. She says that one of the goals of belly dancing is to make participants feel comfortable in their own skin, that belly dancing is “for the mind, body and soul.”

And because belly dancing is ever-evolving and changing, it is a form of fitness you can do for life and not get bored.

For those of you wanting to shake it at Hannan’s Belly Dancing Studio, drop in classes are $23+GST, and sessions are available starting at $100 for 6 classes.

So if the mood strikes you, get out of those boring gym clothes, wrap yourself in a bright scarf and shake your way to a healthier body. And maybe hypnotize a few people along the way with your sultry moves.

Climb Your Way to Fit

 

The Toronto Rock Climbing Academy

 

Just north of Danforth Ave is The Toronto Climbing Academy. Open since 1993 and with a new facility having opened a year ago, The Toronto Climbing Academy offers 86 climbing stations with 120 different climbs and 4000 sq. ft. of bouldering climbs.

Co-owner Sacha Akalski says that rock climbing is a total workout for the body and the mind. “You have to be focused and ignore what is going on around you.  It is a workout for your arms and legs and the reaching helps with flexibility.”  Akalski likens rock climbing to a movement piece or dancing. It utilizes the strength in your legs as much as possible, but you don’t have to be a fitness guru to participate.

Akalski wants new participants to understand it is hard work but also a lot of fun. “You come with a partner or we match you up with one. With your partner there is trust and support and you challenge each other.”

For first time climbers, The Toronto Climbing Academy mandates an introduction course before you can climb on your own. For $37, a two-hour class teaches all the safety needed to climb in the gym with your partner.  When the class is over, you have free reign in the gym.  Once you’ve had an introduction class, it costs $16 to drop in and climb, with an extra small fee for shoes and equipment. Memberships are available for additional savings.

If you want something new and challenging, indoor rock climbing is a great option. So climb to the sky! Or at least until you hit the ceiling.

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