Belly Dancing Lessons in Toledo, Ohio

With such television programs as Dancing with the Stars, America's Ballroom Challenge, and a whole host of hip-hop inspired films, dance is at the center of popular culture again. It is no wonder that belly dancing has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity for purposes of fun and fitness.

Belly dancing is a traditional form of Middle-Eastern dance, but it is also makes for a great workout. Best of all, most instructors will tell you, no experience is required.

Though dance classes are offered at various locations throughout northwest Ohio and southeastern Michigan, but tummy-twisting Toledoans know the best venues for belly dancing lessons are Aegela and The Place for Dance.

For those interested in traditional belly dancing lessons, wrap a scarf around your hips and head to Aegela - where women of all ages and sizes can stretch and tone their way to fitness, Egyptian style. Located at The Martin School, 10 S. Holland-Sylvania at Hill Avenue, Toledo, Aegela offers afternoon, evening and weekend classes.

Class descriptions on the website indicate new students start with an introduction to the basic movements of belly dance while returning students learn additional abdominal and upper limb combinations. Intermediate students shake things up with the choreographed use of veils and zills, or finger cymbals. With the instructor's permission, advanced students can take a class that allows them to further hone their skills with intricate combinations.

Those curious about contemporary belly dancing lessons should shimmy to The Place for Dance, a program whose philosophy is "Everybelly's Welcome!" The Place for Dance at Saxon Square at 6600 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania, Ohio, provides day and evening classes in various locations. In Michigan, The Place for Dance belly dance series has been offered at Bedford Dance Academy, Monroe County Community College, and Monroe Public Schools. In Ohio, the series has been offered at Washington Local Schools, Owens Community College and the Sylvania Dance Academy.