Why Are Belly Dancers Overweight?

Table of Contents

Introduction to Belly Dancing

Belly dancing, also known as Oriental or Arabic dance, is a style of dance that originated as a folk and celebratory dance in the Middle East and North Africa. Some key facts about belly dancing:

A style that emphasizes feminine curves and sensual hip movements. Dancers frequently wear bedlah costumes and use props like veils and finger cymbals.
Traditionally performed at celebrations like weddings or births. Also has roots as a sacred or trance dance.
Different regional styles exist, like Egyptian, Lebanese, Turkish, and Maghreb styles.
Known by many names like raqs sharqi, danza del vientre, and danse orientale.
Gained popularity in the West through cabaret and nightclub performances.

There are some common misconceptions about belly dancers:

That they are all overweight or plus-sized.
That it does not require much technical skill.
That it is easy and only involves shimmying.

However, dancers of all sizes and skill levels participate. It is an expressive dance that provides exercise and empowerment.This article will explore:

Why many belly dancers are plus-size or curvy.
The benefits of belly dance for overweight women.
How to celebrate diversity and inclusion in the global belly dance community.

Reasons Why Many Belly Dancers are Overweight or Plus-Sized

There are several reasons why a significant portion of belly dancers are overweight, plus-sized or curvy.

Belly Dancing Emphasizes Feminine Curves and Full Figures

The isolations and undulations of the dance style emphasize naturally curvy body types.
Dancers use their shoulders, chest, stomach, hips and thighs, so having fuller figures is an asset.
Many dancers wear bedlah costumes that showcase the entire body shape.
Having core strength and control over stomach muscles is key in belly dance.

Belly Dancing Has Roots in Folk Traditions

Belly dancing originated as a folk dance in the Middle East and North Africa.
In those cultures, being overweight was traditionally seen as desirable and a sign of prosperity.
Many traditional belly dancers had fuller, curvy bodies.
The modern cabaret and nightclub styles still embrace this celebration of curvy feminine figures.

The Dance Style Values Personality and Spirit over Thinness

Belly dancing focuses on confidence, joy, sensuality, and personal expression.
Dancers aim to embody feminine energy, power, and spirit – not conform to the Western “thin ideal”.
Body positivity and self-love are encouraged over judging or changing one’s shape.

Plus-Size Women Find Empowerment in Belly Dancing

The dance helps plus-size women build body confidence and self-esteem.
Classes provide a safe, supportive space for overweight women to move freely.
Learning belly dance gives them an enjoyable way to exercise and appreciate their bodies.

Benefits of Belly Dancing for Overweight Women

Belly dancing provides many benefits for plus-size, overweight and curvy women beyond just exercise.

Improved Body Image and Self-Esteem

Learning belly dance helps build body confidence and self-love in plus-size women.
Seeing other dancers with their body type thriving boosts their body image.
Classes provide a supportive community and sisterhood with fellow plus-size dancers.

Low-Impact and Accessible Exercise

Belly dance is a full-body workout that strengthens core muscles and improves fitness.
The isolation movements target the abs, hips, thighs, and glutes.
It builds stamina, flexibility, and muscle control in a gentle, low-impact way.
Movements and routines can be modified to suit different fitness levels.

Creative and Spiritual Outlet for Self-Expression

Allows plus-size women to freely express themselves through dance and costumes.
Provides an artistic outlet for their femininity, sensuality, and spirituality.
The meditative flow of the dance can induce a trance-like state.
Dancing serves as healing, freedom, escape, and empowerment.

Overcoming Stigma and Celebrating All Dancers

The belly dance community aims to be inclusive and supportive of dancers of all backgrounds and body types. However, overweight and plus-size dancers still face stigma and stereotypes.

Promoting Size Diversity and Inclusion in the Community

Belly dance workshops and classes welcome dancers of all shapes and sizes.
There is a growing effort to shift focus from weight to joyful self-expression.
Famous plus-size professional dancers help promote body positivity.

Challenging Stereotypes About Plus-Size Dancers

Dispel notion that overweight dancers have less skill or talent.
Plus-size dancers can attain high levels of technique, grace, and artistry.
Their body size does not determine their dance abilities.

Appreciating the Artistry, Skill, and Beauty of All Dancers

Celebrate diversity in belly dance and value dancers based on merit.
Technical skill, musicality, and expression matter more than size.
Take inspiration from plus-size dancers who exude confidence, beauty, and empowerment.

Conclusion

In summary, many belly dancers are plus-size or curvy due to the celebratory roots and feminine aesthetic of the dance style. Belly dancing provides overweight women with confidence, community, and a way to appreciate their bodies through sensual movement. However, size discrimination still exists in the dance world. The solution is to shift focus to dancers’ passion, skill and artistry rather than their clothing size.Key points:

Belly dancing values feminine curves, full figures and body positivity.
It serves as empowering exercise and self-expression for plus-size women.
But stereotypes and stigma about overweight dancers persist.
The community should celebrate diversity and inclusion among all dancers.
Judge dancers based on technique, spirit and performance – not size or weight.

Belly dancing allows women of all sizes to embrace their sensuality and strength. By welcoming diversity, the global belly dance community can spread this empowering experience to more women everywhere.