When you need to target your abdomen for toning or excess fat, consider belly dancing. This ancient art form has now found a place in dance and exercise studios. While the movements are not as simple as they appear, you benefit from burning calories while you learn and become proficient. As you improve, you will soon see results of your efforts with a toned and trim stomach, one that is fit for wearing the classic belly-dancing costume and bikinis.
History
Belly dancing might have existed as an art form or entertainment since earliest recorded history. Archeologists have unearthed costumes in Turkey and Egypt that resemble those used today, but the origins of the movements that dancers use to choreograph the fluid dance remain a mystery. Alternate names for belly dancing include "raqs sharqi" and oriental dance --- a term applied by Europeans who witnessed the undulating dance performances during Middle Eastern explorations.
Benefits for Stomach Muscles
Belly dancing movements help to tone and strengthen the deepest layer of your stomach muscles, the transverse abdominis. Hip circles --- a key movement --- stretch your obliques, the abdominal muscles that support your torso when you turn. The horizontal and vertical figure-eight movements condition your rectus abdominis, the muscles that form the "six pack" at the front of your abdomen. The camel and belly roll --- common to belly dance routines --- also tone your rectus abdominis muscles. While learning and practicing the dance moves, you burn up to 400 calories per hour.
Learning to Belly Dance
In cultures that are home to the belly dance, the majority of belly dancers learn the traditional style from a relative. Egypt's most popular style is zar, an intense series of gyrating steps, while the softer, subtle movements of khaleegy are more popular throughout other areas of the Arabian Peninsula. Americans often find classes in dance studios that feature international dance classes, senior centers, recreation or continuing education classes at nearby colleges. Throughout the United States, various associations have spring up to provide education, classes, exhibitions, competitions and accessories.
Belly Dancing Exercise Routines
Consider your current fitness level and work your way up to the full range of gyrations and undulations. If you feel unusual pain after a few minutes of practice, stop and rest. Local and national belly dance associations often sell DVDs. Whether you find a DVD at your favorite DVD retailer or locate an online podcast for belly dancing beginners, you will be able to find a workout that will cover the basics.
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