What muscles are the most important to strengthen in order to become a good belly dancer?

Question

I'm taking belly dancing and I love it, but I would like to know which muscle groups and muscle to put some extra effort in when I go to the gym so I can become better. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

You need strong core muscles in belly dance.  Pilates is good for strengthening your core muscles.  It also helps you with toning and balance.  Most belly dancers that I know incorporate some pilates and/or yoga into their workouts.  If you notice any muscle group feels tired or a bit sore after class, you want to work on those muscle groups.  

Answer 2

arms and abs

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Answer 3

umm i would say abs and back as well as obliques

Answer 4

Your abdominals. It's important to work them as often as you can.

You need arm and leg strength too, but your primary focus should be on your torso.

Answer 5

I've taken belly dancing for years.  A very important part is back strength.  If you don't build up your back, you will leave classes and have back pain.  Build up your back, but also work your abs.  If your back and abs aren't in sync that can lead to back pains as well.  What I've found that helped me a lot was to purchase a belly dancing video for beginners and practice it at home in front of a mirror.  This will help you slowly build up key muscle strength.  

Most people don't think anything but abs and back are used in belly dancing, but that is definitely not true.  It's important to work your legs and arms, as well as your shoulders.  Belly dancing works all of your core muscles.  Taking pilates should help you to strengthen all of the necessary muscles.

Answer 6

torso... especially stomach muscles

Answer 7

I've been bellydancing for 6 years now, and you need to work hard on your thighs, and all the muscles in your leg so you can give good support for your body. For this, I strongly recommend doing squats regularly.  Also, exercise your shoulder muscles, as you need strong muscles to do snake arms. If you don't want the sagging on your arms, I recommend you also work on your triceps.

Finally, the most important muscles you absolutely need to work are your abs. For bellydancing, you need a strong core. Do a lot of abs regularly and you'll feel a lot stronger and will be able to control your movements better.