Leona Henderson said: March 5, 2009 7:47 am PST
Belly-dancing: A good exercise for weight loss?
Mayo Clinic physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist Edward Laskowski, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.
Answer
Belly-dancing and other types of dance can be good exercises for weight loss. In fact, you can burn as many calories belly-dancing as you can walking, swimming or riding a bike. As with any physical activity, however, the weight-loss benefits of belly-dancing depend on several factors â?? including the frequency and length of your workouts and your exertion level.
If weight loss is a priority, choose a belly-dancing teacher who keeps you moving continuously throughout the class. You'll get the most benefit from belly-dancing classes that involve traveling steps. Bottom line: The more you move, the more calories you'll burn.
Of course, an overall fitness program includes more than aerobic activity. Strength training, stretching and core exercises â?? such as abdominal crunches â?? also are important.