Health & Fitness — Benefits of Belly Dance

Experience an enchanting escape as you move to hypnotic music of belly dance. Discover a liberating and healthy form of exercise free from stair steppers, life cycles and treadmills.

Belly dance is a low impact form of exercise

The graceful hip drops, rolls, and pivots of this dance form utilize muscle groups in the abdomen, pelvis, trunk, spine, and neck, working with the body instead of against it. Belly dance is based on movements that come naturally to the female form, and its benefits can be enjoyed by women of all ages.

Belly dance helps in losing weight

Belly dance can burn up to 300 to 400 calories per hour. This estimate will vary depending on the intensity of your dancing. Combined with a healthy diet that involves sensible eating, belly dance can be part of a sound weight loss program.

Stress levels become lower

Repetitious swaying, circular and flowing movements are likened to a state of dance-meditation. The dancer often finds that a session of slow, graceful dancing will clear the mind and induce a state of mental relaxation. Faster forms are stimulating and fun.

Belly dance boosts self-image

The movements are artistic and feminine, creating a positive feeling of sensual expression and freedom. The body becomes increasingly supple and graceful through practice, and dancers often feel a heightened sense of elegance and poise long after class.

Belly dance can help relieve PMS

Soothing movements such as rolling the hips, figure eights and undulations can help to alleviate congestion in the pelvic area. Circulation improves while relaxation helps alleviate stress.

Back and joint pains are relieved

Hip drops, circles, figure eights and shimmies put the joints and ligaments in the lower back and hip through a full range of gentle, repetitive motion. These toned muscles improve posture and can help prevent back pain caused by weak muscle groups.

Bone density increases

Because a woman is on her feet and moving during the dance, it is considered a weight-bearing exercise. Weight-bearing exercise can help prevent osteoporosis and strengthen bones.

Belly dance helps in preparing for childbirth

The movements make an excellent prenatal exercise regimen that strengthens muscles used during childbirth. Natural hip tucks resemble the “pelvic rocking” taught in prenatal classes. Consult your medical professional before beginning any prenatal exercise program.