Bellydancing is an ancient art form. Its origins can be traced to India, Africa and Polynesia. This dance is suitable for all ages and body types. The fluid graceful movement provides focused exercise for the pelvic, hip and stomach regions. When you add the arm movements, this exercise is expressive and creative. The first section of the video gives some of the historical background to this dance.

The arm techniques will give you more flexibility and strength. As you move your entire body, the natural movements will exercise every muscle in the body. It will especially strengthen the abdominal muscles. While you are dancing away your belly, you will also notice improved posture and self-confidence.

For this video, you don't need any exotic costumes, although the ones the dancers wear are absolutely the best I have ever seen. You may want to buy a scarf for one of the latter sections to learn veil techniques. Finger cymbals are also used, but you can just pretend you have them.

This exercise video begins with a warm-up, then Atea shows you all the basic moves. The 5 dancers featured in this video show you how to incorporate the basic moves into a more free-style dance. There is no fancy footwork and the dancers are quite good. All the moves are easy to learn, but will take time to incorporate into your own dance routine.

Bellydancing is a low-impact exercise, yet you can feel you are getting a great workout. You will start with stretching, head rolls and some basic warm-up exercises. Then you move a section where you learn basic hip movements. You will then learn to isolate and control various muscle groups. If you wear comfortable clothing, you will be able to accomplish all the moves. There is music in the background, but it isn't the focus.

Bellydancing is healthy for the mind, body and spirit. If you want to put a little oriental spice into your exercise routing, this is not at all a traditional workout. It is very enjoyable and not at all fast paced. Take your time and enjoy the dances that were born at the beginning of time.