How to Do Warm Up Stretches for Belly Dancing

When doing any physical activity, including belly dancing, you must do stretches to warm up your muscles first. It prepares your muscles for the movement and increases the blood flow to your muscles. Stretching also helps you get in the right mind frame for belly dancing, whether you are a beginner or an expert.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Assume the correct position for beginning your warm up. A straight stance with your feet shoulder width apart and arms at your side is a good start. Look straight forward and keep your abdomen muscles tight.

2. Start with your head and neck. Roll your head to the side, then the center and then to the opposite side. Repeat this in the opposite direction. This movement stretches out your neck muscles.

3. Perform side stretches next. Bring one arm up and reach. You should feel this in your arm all the way down through your side. Do an equal amount with each arm.

4. Do a rolling warm up. This stretches out the back, belly and hips. Place your hands on your hips and bend forward. Roll your spine downward, tuck in your pelvis and put your chin to your chest. Reverse and roll up, straightening your back. Repeat several times.

5. Roll forward and hold that position. Tighten up with your abdomen, bringing your belly button in towards your spine. Release and repeat several times. Roll back up to a standing position.

6. Take adequate time to warm up before each belly dancing session. Warming up all the muscle groups allows you to dance more freely and lessens your chance of injury.