In Arabic, Belly Dance is known as Raqs Sharqi (“Eastern Dance”) or Raqs Baladi (“Country Dance” or “Folk Dance”).

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Belly dance is a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise and is thus suitable for all ages.Many of the moves involve isolations, which improves flexibility of the torso. Belly dance moves are beneficial to the spine, as the full-body undulation moves lengthens (decompress) and strengthens the entire column of spinal and abdominal muscles in a gentle way.

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Dancing with a veil can help build strength in the upper body, arm and shoulders. Playing the zills trains fingers to work independently and builds strength. The legs and long muscles of the back are strengthened by hip movements.