Women looking for a fun way to lose weight may want to consider bellydancing. Considered one of the earliest forms of dance, bellydancing originated in the Middle East and has made its way around the world, gaining popularity due to its rhythmic, seductive movements and colorful costumes. Yet the act of bellydancing also provides an aerobic workout, helping its practitioners stay fit and trim.
History
Bellydancing originated thousands of years ago in the Middle East, although the exact details of its origins remain uncertain. Bellydancing gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century, with a performance at the Chicago World Fair in 1893 sparking tremendous interest in the dance. Bellydancing didn’t become a recognized form of exercise until the fitness craze of the 1990s, inspiring organized classes and official workout programs.
Features
Unlike other forms of dance, bellydancing doesn’t rely on dramatic feet and leg action but instead on smooth, controlled movements of the hips and core. Bellydancers need precise muscle control to perform the rhythmic swaying and undulating hip drops, circles and rolls. The dance also involves some bouncing, jumping and spinning, providing a low-impact workout for the entire body.
Function
A form of aerobic workout, bellydancing helps with weight loss in the same fashion as other forms of vigorous exercise such as running, swimming or cycling. Bellydancing’s constant movement elevates heart rate and burns calories. According to Dr. Carolle Jean-Murat, a 60-minute bellydancing session burns approximately 300 calories, making it an effective weight-loss workout.
Benefits
According to author Sheri Waldrop, bellydancing offers its practitioners other benefits aside from weight loss. Bellydancing firms and tones the body, particularly the core muscles of the stomach and hips. Bellydancing’s stretching and swaying movements also work the bones and ligaments of the spine, resulting in more flexibility and improved posture. Practicing bellydancing’s sensual movements may also reduce stress, enhance confidence, and create a better connection with one’s body.
Considerations
Like all forms of exercise, bellydancing requires hard work and dedication. The amount of weight lost due to bellydancing depends on a number of factors, including the workout’s frequency, length and intensity. For optimum weight loss, a bellydancing routine should include plenty of movement, with increased movement meaning more calories burned, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Also, bellydancing lacks a significant strength-training element. Including bellydancing as part of a regular workout routine that also features some form of weight or resistance training will best improve overall fitness.
Member Comments