Dance
Belly dance
Fluid hip and core movements to Middle Eastern music.
- Lightintensity
- ~280kcal per hour
- Low costbudget
- Lowimpact
Is belly dance right for you?
Fluid hip and core movements to Middle Eastern music. It is a light-intensity, low impact activity that you can do indoors or at home, in a group. Expect to burn around 280 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.
Easy to pick up. Expect to spend up to about £20 a month.
Why try belly dance
- Improves flexibility. It takes your joints through a full range of movement.
- Teaches a skill. There is always something new to learn, which keeps it interesting.
- Kind to joints. Low impact makes it a good choice if running or jumping is uncomfortable.
How to start belly dance
Try a beginners' belly dance class or online tutorial.
Get the basics: comfortable clothes. Borrow or hire before you buy.
Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.
Warm up for five minutes first, build up gradually and stop if anything hurts.
A 4-week starter plan
| Week | Sessions | Minutes each | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 20 | Learn the basics and keep every session easy. |
| 2 | 3 | 25 | Repeat last week and add a little time. |
| 3 | 4 | 30 | Add a session or make one a bit harder. |
| 4 | 4 | 35 | Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next. |
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.
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Not sure belly dance is for you?
Take the two-minute quiz and we will match you with activities that fit your goals, mood, budget and fitness.