Belly Dance Exercise Tips

Belly dancing can be an engaging way to stay fit, points out the Mayo Clinic. In fact, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist Edward R. Laskowski, M.D., notes that belly dancing can help you lose weight and burn as many calories as more strenuous exercises like biking, as long as the workouts are consistently challenging. If you think that you would like to try belly dancing of a form of exercise, don't be intimidated. Look for a good instructor who will keep you moving and having a good time.

Dress the Part

The lavish Eastern costumes are part of the authenticity of belly dance classes. Call the studio or instructor ahead of time to see what patrons usually wear to class. You may just wear regular workout gear, but other instructors will ask you to come in costume. A basic costume could include yoga pants, a hip scarf for emphasis, and a midriff-baring choli so that your instructor can see and help you with the movement of your hips and posture, says NearEastDance.com.

Become a Character

You'll get more out of your belly dance exercise class if you release your inhibitions and become a character. The more movement you get through your hips and thighs, the more beneficial the class will be. Think of your class as a performance and have a good time. Don't worry about how you look or if you're making a fool of yourself. Belly dancing is more beneficial when it is practiced fully without care, notes belly dancer Anne Thomas Soffee in her book "Snake Hips."

Loose Joints and Posture

Belly dancing focuses on the abdominal and hip region, so when you begin to learn to belly dance, it may seem strange to you to move those areas so freely. Keep your joint soft so that they can flow freely, while keeping your spine straight and your head up, suggests BellyDanceRox.com. Keep your shoulders back at all times, with your tailbone dropped to the floor.