The following outlines the health benefits to be derived from regular practice of belly dancing

Belly dancing is one of the oldest forms of exercise.  The fast movements, primarily the hip and shoulder shimmies offer cardiovascular benefits and make you break into a sweat.  The entire body is strengthened by using movements with one hip, keeping the weight on one leg.  Lifting the arms for "Snake Arms" strengthens them and the many torso movements make the stomach strong.

When done correctly, belly dancing stretches and releases tension in the muscles, particular in the abdominal and back, strenthening the lower back and helping to prevent back pain.

Students with arthritis find that the gentle circular motions of shoulders and hands provides relief from stiffness and pain.

Because belly dancing is low impact, it doesn't jolt or jar the body, thus making it very safe and unlikely to cause any injury or soreness of joints.

The gentle rolling movements and isolations to hypnotic Middle Eastern music is a great stress reliever.

Finally, because it emphasises spontaneity and not boring repetition, it is easy to forget that you are actually exercising!  The added bonus is that since belly dancing embraces ALL body types, it can significantly improve self image which in turn will improve posture, self confidence and turn you into a beautiful dancer!