Belly dancing is one of the hotness new workout trends in the US according to the American Council on Exercise.  It’s great for increasing flexibility and strength, plus it’s suitable for any age or body type. You can burn as many calories as riding a bike or a light jog, so why not give it a try?

Belly dancing is great for core muscles.  This art form targets your abs, gluts, and thighs.  Adding veil work can improve your upper body strength by working your arms and shoulders. Many styles of belly dancing emphasize muscular “isolations”, which is the ability to move various muscles or muscle groups independently.  The characteristic hip circles and figure eights strengthen long muscles of the back.  The dance can be as physically challenging as you choose.

Zoe Robinson, of Mile High Belly Dance, says, “I started belly dancing as a form of physical therapy; it has really improved my posture and strengthened muscles I didn’t even know I had.”   I personally took some belly dancing classes a few years ago.   I was pretty nervous about going, but the class was very welcoming and it was a great workout.   It was fun to do something totally different.  If you really enjoy it you can start getting extras – like veils and zills (hand cymbals).  I did buy some music and every once in a while I put it on and can’t help but start moving my hips.

Check out this video and you’ll see what a great workout belly dancing can be!