Belly Dancing Workout for Fitness and Health

Belly dancing began as a fertility ritual that came out of the Middle East. Today thanks to modern culture and celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez and Shakira who wear skin baring costumes, coin belts and move and gyrate their bodies in a sensuous manner, belly dancing is becoming not just an ancient art form but also a fun way to exercise and keep in shape. The belly dancing workout is here!

One of the best things about belly dancing is that it can be done by both men and women (although it is still very much the domain of women), and it can be done by people of all ages and fitness levels.

As well it doesn't matter whether you are tall or short, thin, average weight or in need or losing a few pounds. Even those who have suffered a variety of injuries in the past can still enjoy the benefits of belly dancing. It is never too early or too late to be able to shimmy and move about on the dance floor or gym in fine belly dancing style!

Belly dancing is considered to be a new form of Pilates. Not only is belly dancing a form of dance but it is also a form of an aerobic workout as well as an excellent way to improve the workings of the cardiovascular system. Sensuous types of body movements that cause a torso to be undulating and to make curving motions as well as shaking, quaking and swaying hips characterize belly dancing. There are also other types of sensuous movements such as thrusting types of motions as well as hands and legs moving in unison and arms and hands that are in perfect synchronicity. The stomach and the abdominal area in general is the part of the body that is emphasized in belly dancing and it is important to be aware that belly dancing is a type of dance where the body is in constant motion. 

Belly dancing traditionally was a universal celebration for women of femininity and the whole experience of being a woman. It is a way that women could bond together. Belly dancing involves colorful costumes and jewellery that is very decorative. Jewellery is commonly worn in the breast area as well as the hips. Most belly dancers where a hip-belt set that includes a type of bra and skirt while others opt fro a special gown that includes a hip-belt or a hip-scarf.

Belly dancing allows an individual to forge a powerful connection to their own body and it encourages greater levels of strength and grace as well as endurance. Belly dancing is particularly good to improve the strength of the lower body ands legs and it is an excellent way to lose weight. It is common for chiropractors to recommend belly dancing to their patients who suffer from aches and pains that are recurrent as belly dancing is physically very therapeutic and it is also an excellent way to relieve tension from the body and mind. Firmer leg muscles, a smoother abdomen as well as a more positive self-image are all advantages of this ancient form of dance that is making its way into the mainstream of society more every day.