Fitness

Belly Dance is not only fun, but it’s also a great form of exercise. Belly dancing tones the arms, strengthens and tightens the abs and obliques, and improves flexibility. As a form of exercise, it can burn as many calories as jogging, swimming or riding a bike.  Belly dance is less strenuous on the body than weight lifting and more entertaining than sitting on a bike at the gym. Most importantly, belly dance was specifically developed for the female body and is an art that has been perfected for thousands of years.

Confidence Boost

Let’s be honest here, you can’t help but feel great about yourself when you’ve learned to do a Figure 8 in a sexy costume that accentuates your curves! As you tone your arms, define your abs and obliques, strengthen your core and master the shimmy, you learn to use your body in ways that you did not think was possible before. Your confidence will increase as you improve your belly dancing skills and strengthen your body.

Relaxing

As with any form of exercise, belly dancing enables you to shift focus from your duties at the office, to your body and movement. Belly dance is a great exercise to help you destress and get back to your peaceful center.

Bonding and Socializing

The belly dancing community is comprised of fabulous women of all ages and backgrounds. It enables to build new friendships and expand your current network. Most belly dancing classes are held in group settings, so you’re bound to bond with new women. (Reference:

Feel free to list other advantages of belly dancing by commenting on this page, if you think we’ve missed one!

References

• Edward Laskowski, M.D, physician at Mayo Clinic, speaks of calories burnt by Belly Dancing. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/belly-dancing/AN01491
• “Belly dancing: Swivel your way to fitness” CNN article published in 2003 speaks of Bonding and Socializing benefits of belly dancing. http://www.cnn.com/2003/HEALTH/diet.fitness/06/13/bellydancing/index.html