Gydanza

(© Saskia Vanderstichele)

For those looking for professional gymnastics and dance outfits, Gydanza in Schaarbeek/Schaerbeek is a little gem. From a pink tutu to a purple hula-hoop, a scrunchy with glitters to black hip-hop shorts, the little shop has got it all.
Owner Etienne Holzgen is a professional gymnast and dancer himself. After replacing an ill samba teacher for a while, he decided to open his own dance school about four years ago. At Vibrato he teaches a varied repertoire to all ages, going from baby dance to boogie and rock. In the school, he opened a small shop selling professional dance gear to his students. But then a commercial space became up for rent a couple of houses down the same road, and he decided to take the plunge and run a specialised sports shop, open to everybody. With a couple of fitness centres in the area, he added more casual sports wear to the range as well. The choice in leotards for gymnasts is incredible. Think of the Olympics and you’ll get an idea: with sequins, in shiny or velvety fabric, bright pink or neutral navy blue. There’s even a leotard with some Space Invaders or Superman, apparently quite popular with trampoline gymnasts. Less eccentric are the pants and T-shirts by the Italian brand Dimensione Danza or the Danish Carite, made from soft and stretchy viscose, perfect for training and even day-time wear. Etienne sees a growing trend with dancers wanting to be able to wear their outfits outside the dance school, and be recognised as professional dancers wherever they go. There are a couple of racks with outfits for male dancers as well, but they are a lot more basic than those for girls and women. A pair of shorts with a great fit, a T-shirt in a soft fabric, according to Etienne, that’s all men need. For next season, he plans to add even more choice to his shop. Don’t hesitate to ask him for advice if you’re looking for something in particular.

Gydanza•••
avenue Gustave Latinislaan 25, Schaarbeek/Schaerbeek, 02-215.74.03
di/ma/Tu > za/sa/Sa 10 > 19.00, zo/di/Su 10 > 16.00