When I was 8 years old my mom dragged me to my first dance class. I remember that I didn't want to go, but by the time I was 13, I was my teacher's assistant and loved it. I did it all, jazz, tap, ballet and my favorite...toe. I've taught various classes over the years, choreographed musicals and am teaching summer school dance (jazz) to high school girls. As far as keeping fit, seems that no matter how much I dance, how many hours I devote, I could still lose 10 pounds! (Even as a teen when I danced several hours a day, I fought the weight!) Guess though that being able to bend over and lay my hands flat on the floor or still being able to do the splits at 51 is a perk. I haven't done any belly dancing, but I have eyed a few videos. Looks fun, and I bet a class of it with others would be a blast!