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Bellydance Fitness for Beginners

Description: In this production, you will learn the basic moves needed to use bellydance for fitness. The program is easy to learn, will thoroughly exercise your body-from head to toes, but is low impact, relaxing, sensually stimulating and fun. You will also find that the Bellydance Fitness for Beginners - Basic Moves are a delightful, captivating way to express yourself, fully and joyfully.

Reviews (51):

Well done Neena and Veena
Reviewer: Mrs. Diane K. Kovacs Brunswick, Ohio USA 06-20-2003
I was doing this every day this winter/spring and I love it! I've got off track but will begin again once I've got my desk cleared.

Good Video for Those Interested In Improving Over Time
Reviewer: Mrs. Diane K. Kovacs Michigan 09-18-2005
I read some other review complaining about how the video is not low impact. The video states in the beginning that you should consult a doctor before starting any excersize program and also encourages you periodically to slowdown, try simplifying the move, or to stop if the moves become too strenuous. By doing this it encourages the viewer to go at their own pace while at the same time allowing people viewing the video for the second or third time an opportunity to continue to stretch their limits. If someone does not follow the directions to stop if there is strain, that is not a fault of the video. This isn't a video that you will buy, use twice and put in a closet because you can do it all already and don't need to see it anymore. The video and the time they spend on each move helps you guage your progress and build your endurance. This is a good workout that quickly gets you heart-rate up and lets you know you are getting some excercize!

I also liked the way it kept the movements simple and showed them for a long time, giving you an opportunity to observe exactly how the movement is supposed to work. I watched another video, Bellydance! Magical Movement and thought that their frequent costumn changes, lack of real direction, and the short time spent on any given motion to be rather unmotivating and distracting. This video is different because it allows you to get simple movements down very well and a chance to build your stamina because from what I've seen, if you want to bellydance, you are going to need it!

If you get this video, do it the first time with a friend. Like I said, it can be difficult in the beginning if you try to hard to keep up with them, but its so much fun to laugh together as you try!

NOT the best for beginners!
Reviewer: Mrs. Diane K. Kovacs Columbus, OH USA 07-04-2005
If you explore bellydance fitness and instructional videos and DVDs on Amazon you'll see everyone and their momma reccommending this one.

But this is NOT The best DVD out there for instruction OR fitness.
First of all: the "basic moves" DVD is a decent basic instruction, however there are other bellydance DVD's that teach a LOT more basic moves, such as the Goddess Workout with Dolphina or Magical Motion with Atea (the one that I would REALLY reccommend). Even Neena and Veena's "Discover Bellydance - Basic Dance" teaches more than this DVD.

Second: the "Fat Burning" workout is, in a word, DANGEROUS. There are several moves done in this workout, including head rolls during the workout and an extended piston shimmy (aka choo-choo shimmy, that whole toe-tapping on the balls of your fee thing) that can cause injury when done incorrectly. The DVD does not teach the proper technique to do these moves.

Thirdly, "Fat Burning" is an extremely difficult workout and would be very bad for anyone with trouble in their ankles, knees or hips. After the first time I did it my calves were excruciatingly sore for a week.

Fourthly, though the "Basic Moves" part does teach some bellydance moves, the moves used in "Fat Burning" are mostly just exercise moves. If you want to learn to bellydance or do a workout that uses a lot of bellydance moves, you'll want to look elsewhere.

The Discover Bellydance workouts by Rania offer a far more gentle workout for those who haven't been exercising for a while. For someone who exercises regularly, wants a workout that uses a few bellydance moves and can still be challenging, Neena and Veena's "Slim Down" is a far better choice.

My calves are sore!
Reviewer: C. Savage 06-30-2005
The music gets old after awhile, as does the narration, but the workout is a lot of fun (and exhausting--not for the out-of-shape!). The dance footage at the end is great.

not low impact
Reviewer: C. Savage Tucson, AZ USA 06-24-2005
This video is a good work out and will get you moving but for someone with knee problems watch out. The first part with basic moves is good but the fat burning cardio has a lot of jumping. This part is not only very hard on your knees but you do the same move for almost 5 minutes straight. I am in good shape but had very minor knee surgery 7 months ago. My hasn't given me any problems for at least two months untill I tryed to do this video.

A nice change of pace
Reviewer: Shannon G "Shannon" Boston 05-17-2005
I have a large collection of home fitness DVDs... Bellydance Fitness for Beginners is something that I throw in only once every few months when I need a change of pace. Everytime I do it, I'm surprised at how much of a workout it actually is. It truly gets my heart pumping and I am always sweating by the end of it. Another plus, is that it REALLY works out the calf muscels, which is an area that many fitness DVDs do not include. Another thing I love about the video is the hypnotic arabic music - it is such a nice break from the cheesey music on the rest of my workout DVDs. The only downside of the DVD is that it only has a few moves that it repeats over and over and over..... Also I should point out, this is a good DVD to add variety to your home workouts, but it certainly wont teach you to be a belly dancer....

My first & favorite bellydance teachers/workouts
Reviewer: Shannon G "Shannon" Long Island, NY 04-27-2005
This is one of my first DVDs on bellydancing & what got me into it 2 years ago. Great instruction, great pace & fun! :-) Neena & Veena are my favorite bellydancer instructors. Dolphina the Goddess Workouts are good too, but Rania's are way too stiff/robotic. Check out trailers

Endurance, Endurance, Endurance
Reviewer: J. Sheriff St. Louis, MO 03-09-2005
I have some dance experience, so the first time I went through this workout, I was arrogant enough to think it would be too easy. Veena and Neena don't switch moves very rapidly--they stay on each stretch and step for quite a while, and there is additional voiceover narration to help. My arrogance quickly evaporated after 15 consecutive minutes of hopping with my arms held less and less gracefully at varying points above my shoulders. The fat burning section is NOT for beginners, or I'm a lot more out of shape than I thought.

Pros: The directions are clear and the moves are lovely. This is a nice change from other workouts in that it offers new moves, and it's relaxing to hear the music--the set and costumes are pretty, and it's nice to imagine you're moving as beautifully as they are.

Cons: Some of the moves are difficult to fit to the Eastern music, so if the move is on a count of 4, it feels awkward to stay with the music.

Also, I'm too impatient to really appreciate this workout--I want to get right to the fat burning, so I don't want to go through the slow, relaxing, head rolls and stretches in the first section. But then when I get to the fat burning section, they do the same move over and over for the longest time, and I get too exhausted to finish properly and cheat by stepping instead of hopping. It's not a great pay-off, the way some of the cardio salsa routines are--you don't feel like you're mastering steps and having fun so much as enduring some Survivor-style mental challenge (which, so far, I am continuing to fail).

I think if you were in excellent shape, you would love the fat burning section, and if you wanted to build strength over time, you would love the warm-up section. The routines are lovely, but so far, none of them work quite right for me.

Don't get me wrong, this isn't a bad buy
Reviewer: S. Romeo 01-06-2005
In searching for an exercise routine I could find motivating and stimulating, I came upon this title. Just the word 'bellydance' drew me in and it was a must have. Now, while I have enjoyed the Basic Moves section I feel like it does almost nothing for me. Maybe it raises my heart rate for a while, but it hasn't helped me tone up or lose any weight at all. On top of that, no matter how easy that section becomes, the Fat Burning section still requires a much higher level of activity because of the constant hopping. It's too big a difference for me to get used to. I'm asthmatic so my lungs get tired and tight really fast (lots of water helps immensely). Most workouts are fine for me. It's when jumping is included that I can't handle it well. Another reviewer advised to just step into positions instead of the hopping, so I'll have to try that and see if it makes it easier for me. Otherwise, I'm unable to finish that routine.

Now, I'm currently working out to the Classical Pilates DVD (intermediate) and, while I find there's nothing that has been better for me, I continue to use the Basic Moves routine in this DVD because it keeps me feeling really flexible (and yes, sensual).

If you can handle jumping around, then I'm sure the Fat Burning section will work well for you. But for me, the DVD has only given me as much as 3 stars can afford.

No happy medium for intermediates
Reviewer: Birdies Mama Milwaukee, WI, USA 09-29-2004
Fat Burning (25 mins) is almost straight hopping. You can make the workout easier by stepping through the moves instead. It will definitely get your heart rate up, and zaps the calves like nothing else. Mine actually ache for several days after doing the routine. The warmup and cooldown are enjoyable. This is a brief but CHALLENGING workout.

The other segment, Basic Moves (30 minutes) is low impact and low-effort. It's more like a "day-off" workout--less strenuous than most yoga and pilates DVDs. You will experience some upper-body toning as you do make "snake arms," shimmy, and do other dancelike, sinuous moves. But unless you're a real fitness beginner, it won't work you out.

Great workout for the out of shape and rushed!
Reviewer: Mary Cox Tallahassee, FL USA 07-15-2004
I love the beginning workout on this CD. It reminds me a lot of Tai Chi--but with music and some prettier moves. I bought this DVD to have a short and easy workout to alternate with an easy Tai Chi workout. I can almost do this workout and will be able to do it soon. It covers all sections of my body, but is not so strenuous that I will damage myself. Veena and Neena are experienced instructors and they make the workout fun, relaxing and thorough. I have not done the fat burning portion yet--I will save it for when I can do the basic moves easily and want to step up the action. It looks like there is a more advanced set of DVDs that is available if I ever get really smooth and want to move it up more.
This is a very professionally done DVD with attention to scene and background selection, good sound, selection of music and costuming as well as sound method.
Many films of this nature often leave a lot to be desired--but this one is professionally laid out and I will enjoy it for years.
I will probably buy the more advanced three set if I put in enough time to get smooth on this beginning tape.:)
I am too old to want to bellydance in a public class, but this is really fun and inspiring to try this in my own home. :)

half good half bad
Reviewer: Alex (Mex) 07-12-2004
The twins are very good instructors, the first section Basic Moves is intersting and fun, fine for beginners and for the people who wants to do some workout,but the second section Fat Burning is very very very bored,tedius and you can hurt your knees because always is jump and jump. If you want to learn bellydance you can have The Sensual Art of Bellydance series, they are very nice,sensual, fun and they teach you very good.

GREAT WORKOUT
Reviewer: Brooke "riversfan2006" Kentucky, USA 06-25-2004
Veena and Neena's Bellydance for beginners is the greatest bellydance workout there is. It is really easy to follow along with and they teach you real bellydancing moves. It is really fun to do and the music they play in the background is great too. The only thing is I wish they would last longer than they do! This is the funnest way to exercise. You'll really enjoy it. But beware! After the first time you do it (both basic moves and fat burning) your WHOLE body may get really sore (especially your hips but that means the exercises really work and that your doing all the moves correctly!) You might need to take 1 or 2 days off before you do it again. Overall I can't wait to buy the rest of the DVDs from their collection!!

My New Favorite Workout!
Reviewer: B. Kato Auburn, CA United States 06-14-2004
I just finished this workout, and I have to say, it is fabulous! Admittedly, my arms were more out of shape than I anticipated, as I found out while doing the various movements on this DVD. The moves may feel a bit odd to those of us without any prior bellydancing experience, but I easily caught on. I didn't realize how much of a workout I was getting until I sat down at the end and began to seriously sweat! It's long enough to get a good workout, but short enough that it doesn't feel dragged out with filler and talk. I can see how over a short period of time, the moves would become more natural. This is a very fun workout that is both aerobically and visually stimulating. It is well worth the money and time invested in it.

Very fun, difficult if you're heavy
Reviewer: B. Kato 05-27-2004
A refreshing change of routine. Not only am I toning muscles but learning to be graceful as well. However the jumping in the Fat Burning section can become difficult if you're carrying extra pounds.

A nice, low-impact exercise program
Reviewer: "jeopardyfreak69" New Haven, Kentucky United States 04-09-2004
I recently rented this video because I wasn't sure if I wanted to actually buy it. I have a bad lower back due to a work injury, so I was asking around for something low-impact. Well, this is it! I haven't had to quit because my back was hurting too much to continue. That's great! I've only done the Basic Moves part so far and I've only done it 3 times. I like the way the exercises move down your body, and no part is worked out too much. I also really like the music. The best part is I can already tell that my muscles are toning up. Everyone I know has commented "have you lost weight? Are you working out?"
I'll be the first to admit I usually don't do the whole workout video thing. Mostly because they're boring, not fun, they hurt too much, etc. The production value is not as good as I would have liked. The narration threw me off the first time I did it, but after that I just ignored it. Unfortunately, tuning the narrator out is almost essential.
Other than those two complaints, I'm extremely impressed with this DVD and will be buying it once I have the money.

I Love It
Reviewer: Anonymous 03-22-2004
I love this DVD ever since i got it, i've used it everyday, i'm sure weight loss isn't far behind. That wasn't one of my issues. But this is very fun and easy to follow. I highly reccommend it.

Covers the extremes of the spectrum
Reviewer: Christi NJ 03-18-2004
Basic Moves was the first Bellydance VHS I bought; I absolutely loved it because the moves were broken down so extremely well that I never felt discouraged and rather was motivated to learn more and buy more tapes. I continue to love this tape because now I use this routine to keep my fundamentals strong. Also more recently, I purchased the Fat Burning VHS and, well, Veena and Neena weren't kidding. This is definatley an awesome cardiovascular workout: the moves are simple and involve TONS of jumping (which i think is terrifically fun). I would die to try this on a giant trampoline just for the laughs!
Now that I've been upgrading to DVD, I noticed that these two workouts were on the same disc. Wow. This defines the difference between Lo Impact and Hi Impact better than anything I can think of. I tell you this: both programs are amazing no matter what level bellydancer you are, but definately be careful with Fat Burning if your fitness level isn't too high.

Silly People
Reviewer: Christi Phoenix, AZ USA 03-02-2004
I love how seemingly the only complaints people have about the DVDs from Veena and Neena center around the fact that they aren't dance instructional videos. Duh people. They are workout videos. It says that right on the box and in the reviews. You want dance instruction, go buy a dance instruction video, and the twins do have several.
And as workout videos go, the whole series is great, including of course this one. I'm easily distracted and its hard to keep me entertained but these workouts are fun. Sure, its cheese and everyone else is saying the same thing, but that's because it's the truth. I only wish there were more videos by these two women. They are fun to watch and I enjoy the gentle guiding voice that gives the instructions. I don't feel like an idiot by watching or using these DVDs. It's a far cry from my mothers 80s workout videos! (Oh the pink spandex horrors!)

Two completely different workouts
Reviewer: Christi Toronto, Ontario Canada 02-26-2004
The first one is low-impact and low-sweat (for someone who is not completely out of shape like I am, no-sweat). It's fun and sensual, and although some moves are tricky and you may have to view them in slow motion to get them fully (but I am phenomenally uncoordinated, so it might be easier if you're normal:)). The next morning, your biceps will be sore. Your obliques (the side abs) might also be. During the workout, you'll also feel your outer thighs, abs, front of thighs, shoudlers and glutes.
The second workout contains a lot of JUMPING. Quite high-impact When you do it, you sweat and you jiggle all over. However, it gets your heart rate nice and high and it gives your calves a killer workout. Your biceps will be sore the next day too.
For both workouts, the instruction and the demonstration are fine, although some parts of Neena and Veena's bodies do get cut off sometimes. The instruction, however, is clear, and you get the option to turn it off once you know what you're doing. Their outfits let you see EXACTLY what they are doing. I found their bright smiles slightly annoying (but then, for the most part, you don't have to look at their heads so it's not important). By contrast, you DO have to look at their midsection quite a lot, and I found the fact that it's not completely flat and firm comforting (doesn't make me feel like a fat sow by comparison) and helpful (it's easier to figure moves out if the presenter's body is sort of like yours because then you know exactly what should be moving/jiggling and what shouldn't be).
I didn't like the fact that if I chose the Neena and Veena commentary option for audio, there wasn't any music to accompany it. The commentary itself was interesting though.
Finally, the extra dance footage is varied and gives us beginners something to strive for. Also, Neena and Veena's little entrance dance gives us something more ACHIEVABLE to strive for.:)

Very basic introduction, but that's what it's supposed to be
Reviewer: "kerinda" West Cheste, OH United States 02-13-2004
This is not a regimen for the experienced belly dancer. However,this is a fun, easy introduction for the person who might be intimidated by the more difficult forms and videos out there, or who thinks they *may* want to take a class but aren't sure.
Although the exercises are easy, you *will* feel a burn, especially in your arms and stomach. If you stick with it, you will become more comfortable not only with the movements, but with your body.

I highly recommend this video as an introduction to bellydancing and as a easy, low impact exercise video.

Its harder and more effective then it looks!
Reviewer: Hollie Honolulu, Hawaii 01-06-2004
(If your looking to buy a dvd where you can learn bellydance chorography, do not buy this.)
I bellydance and this dvd is a great dvd! It tones and strenthens the muscles I use while bellydancing, such as my thighs and hips. I love this DVD. I especially love the special features. In the commentary, Veena and Neena reveals more information on the specific moves done in the dvd and some background/history of some moves etc...Also In the special features are EXTRA DANCE FOOTAGE. It is my favorite part in the special features section. Five seperate dances are shown, and I must say, VERY beautifully done. Each dance shows different forms of Egyptian bellydance (dancing to a drum solo, with a veil, cymbals, a sword, and a cane.)

Basic Moves is a slow, non-impact workout that is so much fun!!! It was hard for me to believe, just by watching the dvd, that the workout could have any effect on me. But it did. This workout doesnt build bulk, instead it tones the muscles and trims the fat on your body.

Fat burning is very hard for me. Its hard to keep up really. But its IS a good workout. There is lots of jumping/bouncing in this part of the DVD, so there is lots of emphasis on the calves.

pros and cons
Reviewer: "crackgrrrl" pittsburgh, pa 11-21-2003
the basic moves portion makes you use muscles you probably were aware of. it is low impact, good for beginners and approx. 30mins. if you are looking to sweat, this is not what you're looking for. if you are looking for something to help increase your coordination and tone up, this is a good work-out.
the fat burning portion is good. the twins take you through the proper ratio of hard/easy (1 to 3) to get a good cardio workout. this really works your legs (and i walk a lot, 1-2.5 miles a day). plus this workout is short(30mins), which i helpful if you don't have a full hour to work out.

good addition to any workout collection.

Pretty good
Reviewer: Anonymous 07-16-2003
Others may be disappointed in the video b/c it doesn't do much to teach bellydancing, but I bought it for the work-out aspect. So I think its great! It's a lot of fun, more fun than most home-video workouts available out there. It's enough to get you moving, your heart pumping, and your calories burning, but not so strenous that you want to quit altogether. The music is good to work out to as well. The only downside to this is that the voice-over is sometimes out of tune w/the music and the beats, which can be kind of annoying. But other than that, the DVD and the workout series (which I own) is great!!!

THE video for beginning dancers
Reviewer: Anonymous Poughkeepsie, NY United States 07-15-2003
These excellent videos are a must have for anyone interested in learning to bellydance. Although you will not become a bellydancer overnight, the videos teach you the basic components of bellydance. The workout is fun and engaging, and you won't mind practicing it over and over. Once the material here is mastered, Neena and Veena's more advanced videos teach choreography and putting everything together into a routine.

Fitness? Yes. Bellydancing? Sorta
Reviewer: Anonymous Texas, USA 07-08-2003
When I first bought this DVD I was very happy with what it offered me. It helped me learn some of the basic moves that I would need when I later started taking a class. However, this DVD does not teach you how to *dance*--it will teach you a few selective steps/moves used in dance. The focus here is the fitness, not the dance.
I do not recommend this to someone wanting to learn to dance, or looking to get into Mideastern Dance as a pro. I would recommend this to anyone wanting to supplement their classwork, or anyone who is looking for an alternative to aerobics type exercise.

boring!!!
Reviewer: Anonymous 06-19-2003
This is the most boring excersice video I ever owned! I bought it about a year ago, tried it maybe three times and never once did I finish either of their routine. Yes, watching the twins dancing by themselves (at begining and end of the routine) was nice but the part for me [was bad]. The worst part I can remember is that you hop back and forth for maybe 5 minutues, feels like 25, both arms up for half of the time and the other half having a finger touching your forehead. I felt like a complete idiot.

Bellydance Fitness for Beginners - Basic Moves & Fat Burning
Reviewer: Abby Wade "Closet moderate" 06-18-2003
This combination certainly runs the gambit of easy and not so easy.
The beginner moves are too easy for anyone with dance experience,and you won't really learn anything ot get much of a workout. It's a great way to go over fundamentals though, and everyone could use that every now and then.
The fat burning portion burns fat, that's for sure. It's a bit repetative, but then again aren't most aerobic workouts? At least this is a little more fun.
I would add that if you're looking at this series to learn how to bellydance, then you have the wrong series. This DVD is a workout, and not much else. An experienced dancer may borrow a few speific moves, or general ideas, but that's about it for instruction.
Also, in defense of the N&V videos I would like to say to anyone who gave this, or any of thier videos marks for being "dangerous" because the twins are barefoot: *Oh my God! It's not like your feet are for walking on or anything like that.* Why is it that in Asia nomads walk for hundreds of miles barefoot, but Americans wear houseslippers to protect thier feet?

10 STARS!!!The Best of The Best
Reviewer: Kimberly Tinley Park, IL 05-27-2003
I feel in so love with " Bellydance Fitness for Beginners: Basic Moves & Fat Burning " if I was able to give This DVD 10 stars I would. Such wondering teaching instruction, the way the two teach is perfect you so completely understand what they are doing and where they are going. I will definitely stick with the twins. If you purchase this DVD you will NOT be disappointed. What a workout burn!!!

Great if you use it
Reviewer: Anonymous 00-00-0000
Like any workout video, this is great if you are disciplined enough to use it. Just a touch more interesting and exotic than something like Jane Fonda Aerobics.

Good for Beginners
Reviewer: Anonymous 04-10-2003
I like working out, but average aerobics style workout videos get boring fast. Dancing is so much more fun, albeit, you don't actually learn any dancing in this DVD. Instead, you get some basic beginners moves to easily introduce your body to moving in a new way, especially if you have a limited dance background, like me. The fat burning section does get a bit repetitive, but it's a HUGE challenge--I can't get through it all yet. Warning: the fat burning section is extremely hard on the knees. If you have delicate knees, you should probably look elsewhere.

More fun than Pilates!
Reviewer: "issa7396" Orange County, CA 03-21-2003
I really enjoyed the Basic Moves segment of this DVD, it gives you a great toning workout. I also have the Jennifer Kries Pilates Method: Perfect Mix DVD, and I feel Bellydance: Basic Moves gives just as good a workout by toning your whole body as you move, but is a LOT more fun! The format of the workout is basically body isolations, learning the different moves for each part of your body. I was disappointed that you don't get to learn an actual dance routine. This DVD only gets 3 stars instead of 4 because I did not enjoy the Fat Burning workout. Again, you don't learn an actual dance routine for this workout, you simply learn higher impact moves, and you do each move for a REALLY LONG TIME, the only variation being changing the arm positions every once in a while. But it's still more fun than Pilates or your basic toning/weight lifting workout!

One of my favorite DVD's
Reviewer: "issa7396" Upton, NY United States 02-22-2003
I *love* these routines. I've put together a weekly workout that includes Tai Chi, Ballet, Belly dancing, hiking, Body Toning, and the occasional foray into Yoga.
My two favorite indoor activities are Ballet and belly dancing. And, Neena and Veena are usually the belly dancing I do. I can do four to five routines in one night, and I get a great workout for my whole body. However, I've had to work up to that over the past five months, or so.

Basic Moves is a good introductary tape and really helps you get started and confident in what you're doing. Fat Burning is a fast-paced cardio routine. Neena and Veena are great instructors and the routines are quality recordings, with very few continuity errors.

My few complaints with the DVD are that when playing through both workouts, I shouldn't have to suffer through the closing credits between sequences, and the commentary tracks, while interesting, were VERY sparse. I think each one lasted for about half the routine.

Both of these are such minor quibbles that I don't think it brings down the overall quality of the routines. I just wanted to mention it for the absolute purists out there.

As another reviewer mentioned, getting a hip scarf is a good idea. I bought one, and it helps me make sure I'm keeping the right tempo as I move along with the tapes. I can watch the girls' scarves, instead of my own hips!

Nice workout
Reviewer: "issa7396" missouri,USA 02-18-2003
I think these are great for anyone wanting something a little different. I really liked basic moves, but didn't really care for fat-burning. The basic moves is really fun. But the fat burning workout feels like more jumping around than bellydancing.

Bellydancing makes working out fun!
Reviewer: "issa7396" Bronx, NY 02-06-2003
I admit it, I'm a couch potato. Well, I was before I was introduced to Neena and Veena. Now, I can't wait to do my workouts. I've even hooked my mom (even more sedentary than I was) on them. They're beautiful, graceful and make bellydancing easy. The first workout on this dvd is extremely low-impact, but challenging in that you have to really focus on making your muscles move. I love the hip thrusts. After a few weeks of doing this workout, I find myself with better muscle tone and confidence. I'm excited and energized. Go out and get yourself a copy!

Hips & Waist will feel it
Reviewer: A. Cheek "Photo Chick" Nashville, TN 01-26-2003
This tape is a good place to start for anyone looking to learn a little about bellydancing, as well as shape up. The instruction is presented well, with everything done in a slow fashion at first and sped up gradually as you get the hang of it. I haven't exercised in over a year, and found my shoulders and arms starting to burn long before these 2 women were done, but I am a true beginner. If you're already in good shape, you probably won't even break a sweat. I've never seen a tape like this before though, and would imagine it's great for breaking the monotony of a stale workout regimen.
The warm up consists of a some good stretches, with lots of twisting and control in the hip region (no surprise) later on in the tape. The arms are not ignored either - there was more 'snake arm' and shoulder work here than I anticipated. Camera angles are good, and the music is very ethnic and appropriate. These 2 ladies are very graceful and doing the tape with them made me feel like maybe one day I will be to.

Belly Dance Fitness is not that easy
Reviewer: Anonymous 01-18-2003
This dvd is great but the moves are somewhat difficult. If you are a beginner,like myself, you will probably have a hard time performing the moves. But if you are advanced or somewhat in shape, it might be easy for you. But either way, you will feel the burn. I would recommend this dvd to anyone. At the end of the dvd, you get to watch a fantastic performance of belly dancing which is my favorite part. But, unfortunatly they do not teach you the dance moves.

Fat Burning Segment dead boring
Reviewer: "jlhhlj12" Marlton, NJ United States 09-27-2002
After reading all of the positive reviews on this DVD, I had high expectations when I popped it into my DVD. The beginning is very promising, showing Veena and Neena performing a beautiful, exotic belly dance. This is not what you will be doing.
What you will be doing is repetitive, simple movements. Underline repetitive. During the beginning moves segment, I did feel it in some muscles I haven't used in years. However, the workout does not resemble the dancing they do in the introduction and again at the credits.
I was extremely disappointed in the fat burning segment. Yes, I was sweating at the end of the workout. However, the moves were so repetitive and unchallenging it was about as engaging and fun as jumping rope.
I expected to be able to do a belly dance routine, or at least a series of 5 or 6 moves to make up my own routine, by the end of the DVD. This DVD will not teach you enough to do so. If the workout was closer to the belly dancing seen during the intro and credits, I would have been thrilled. It was not. I am going to rent before I buy another belly dancing DVD.

A Good Alternative....
Reviewer: Anonymous 09-25-2002
If you are looking to add some variety to your workout routine, then give one of these a try. The DVD allows you to select which section, either the basic moves or fat burning, you would like to complete which works well if you like options. Each section is a full workout, which takes you through warm up to cool down. I found the basic moves are good for "in between" days or if you are simply looking for a slower pace to get back into things.

They sure do make it look easy....
Reviewer: Anonymous Cedar Hill, TX USA 09-19-2002
In fact, they make it look easier than it really is. I flipped through this at first, thinking "Oh, this will be a snap! How am I supposed to burn calories doing this?"
Thirty minutes later, I finished with the 'low' impact and was sweating like a pig. The dance moves are complex and work all those itty bitty muscles that you forgot you had. It's really a great way to tone up, and while you feel silly at first, it's no sillier than flapping your arms back and forth as Richard Simmons screams at you.

My main complaint about this DVD is that if you're looking to hear some great bellydancing music on this, keep looking. The music is almost too quiet, and fairly bland.

Love this DVD Bellydance Workout! Wish MORE Coming!
Reviewer: "ivorypatio" Los Angeles, California United States 09-05-2002
I bought this Bellydance DVD along with their other VHS tapes. I'd say this DVD is better than their VHS. More workout More value. I hope Veena and Neena will produce more varieties before we watch the same tape too much and get bored. This is an excellent workout program, beautiful and fun. Definitely a good investment.

Learn to be sexy & graceful while you get in shape!!!
Reviewer: Anonymous 08-06-2002
WOW! This video is fantastic! I've trained as a professional wrestler, so as you can imagine, I've done nearly every kind of workout you can think of & this one is great!!
The first section of the tape teaches you, slowly, how to do the various moves. One of the hip movement instructions is as simple as, "Move your hips to the left, back, right, forward. Do it again, picking up the pace, & you should start to see the movement."

Stand up, follow that direction, & you'll see how simple this video will be for you!

Don't get me wrong, the actual workout is tough & hard to get through, but I found nothing "boring" or "repetive" about it. I actually *ENJOYED* following the girls & found myself incorporating these own steps into my nightclub dancing..you outta see the looks on the guys' faces! That alone is worth the price of the tape!

I can see where this tape would help someone without much muscle tone to develop it..it's fantastic. I've ordered copies of this video for every female in my family & just recently picked up the next copy in the series.

I highly recommend this video to any female that wants to learn beauty, grace, & possibly start a new hobby - BELLY DANCING!!

Fun!
Reviewer: "karibbeangirl" Saint Paul, MN United States 07-20-2002
This might not be the hardest workout in the world, it might not be the best but it will motivate you, move you and yes, excercise you.
The Basic Moves are fairly easy to do and a great start before you move on to any other of Neena and Veena's videos (specially the Slim Down VHS which is my favorite).

Fat Burning seems easy when you watch it but give it a try and you'll feel it.

I have found that using a bellydancing belt or scarf (you can get them at ebay for a good price) is really encouraging, it helps you keep the rythm and motivates you to move more and make sounds that not only sound beautiful, but you'll hear them matching the movements in the screen and will make you feel like a real bellydancer.

The DVD is a great value since you get for one low price, what you would otherwise have to buy as two separate VHS for about the same price. I also recommend the Arms, Abs, Hips, Buns and Thighs DVD and the Slim Down VHS.

Just starting out
Reviewer: "karibbeangirl" Japan 06-04-2002
I've just started out learning to dance (after a year of pondering the idea). This was the first thing I found in VHS form, and after going through it I had to convert it to DVD. The first one is awsome for people who never quite learned how to move their bodies beyond walking and running (me!). It teaches the basic movements that will be incorporated into dance at a more advanced stage, as well as focuses on the exercise aspect of it. Plus, it takes the time to let you see how different things are done, rather than rushing ahead just to show off the expertise of the dancers on the video. The same thing goes for the second work out on this dvd. I was very happy with this and am looking forward to getting a hold of anything else by these sisters.

Thoughts on the twins
Reviewer: kay Florida, USA 05-30-2002
Wow, this is by far the worst dvd I own. Aerobically-its a good workout but you have to suffer through long repetitive movements that get boring FAST. Plus you have no shoes on so make sure the padding under your carpet is new to avoid injury. And, I never felt like I was even close to belly dancing. The extra dance segments that feature the twins dancing made me feel that this video was more about their self promotion than me getting into shape. Pass this one up or give it to your man for his personal enjoyment-thats about all its worth.

DO YOU LIKE TOUCHING YOUR FOREHEAD???
Reviewer: Anonymous 05-11-2002
Not very many "belly" moves. alot of low hoping and forehead touching. Yes its a good workout, yes the music is nice, yes I got bored really fast. used it twice!

Very entertaining but not exercise!
Reviewer: Anonymous 05-06-2002
The basic moves portion of the dvd was great in order to learn the movements in bellydance, but I would not consider it real exercise. The moves are definately sexy and I think the video is an excellent introduction. The cardio portion was not as much fun and consists of a lot of jumping back and forth on your toes and putting your finger to your forehead. It felt pretty silly and not sexy at all! The extra footage of the sister's dances were really motivating and beautiful. The dvd is worth the purchase, only if you are not expecting to work out!

Basic Moves For Novices-FatBurning For In shape people
Reviewer: Katie Salem, Or United States 04-25-2002
I absolutely fell in love with Belly Dancing thanks to this DVD. It has helped me lose 2 pant sizes in a month (From 24 to a 22)and has upped my confidence, energy and has helped me develop a new love- Belly dancing!
My personal opinion: Basic Moves is best if you are a total novice to belly dancing, and if you are pretty out of shape. I would highly reccomend Basic Moves if you are looking for a work out that will teach you some moves, is fun, challenging yet dosen't leave you feeling like your gonna die any moment.
My only gripe is I don't understand why they included one of their HARDEST work outs on the same DVD as their easiest. I have weak ankles, so the fat burning portion of the DVD which deals mostly with Egyptian Folk dancing is pretty much a no go for me. It seems you would need to be in really good shape to do the fat burning portion.

If you are out of shape, I would save the money and just buy the VHS of Basic moves.

A Workout I Can Live With
Reviewer: Eve-Marie Hughes Sacramento, CA USA 03-28-2002
Neena and Veena present themselves well, and wisely leave the narration/instruction to voiceover, while concentrating on presenting the moves as cleanly and clearly as possible. Basic Moves starts with a fluid warmup that leads you gradually into more strenuous activity. This would be perfect for someone who's just beginning to explore belly dance and is not ready to invest in classes and gear. It's not as good as taking a class, but it's a great supplement to those classes for someone like me, who needs to be lead through the warmup and workout. I found it helpful to watch the sister on the left to see how to DO the moves, then watch the sister on the right to add more flair as I've gained confidence. The second workout, Fat Burning, is a lot harder, so unless you're already in good shape, save it til the Basic Moves starts to feel too easy. I am woefully out of shape and cannot yet make it through more than half of the session (but it's only been a few undisciplined weeks.) I AM still having fun with it though, which keeps me motivated.

THANK YOU NEENA AND VEENA!
Reviewer: "savedacowz" Denton, Texas United States 02-21-2002
This is an excellent workout for someone who hates to work out. I have been doing it twice a week for three weeks and its been fun. My belly is noticable more defined, so are my legs and arms, and I've lost about 8 pounds. My boyfriend has especially noticed the change in my body and says he loves it that I look like a belly dancer. Its a very sexy workout.
I have more energy and i acctually look forward to working out now, instead of dreading it. It is not strenuous, instead it is more relaxing. I feel good when I am done instead of worn out.

Neena and Veena have a lot of enthusiasm and thier attitude makes you feel good about working out. They are so graceful and fun to watch. I find myself doing the moves to music as I clean the house because they are enjoyable.

If you are not in shape when you get it, take your time learning the basic moves section before you try to move onto the fat burning. If you stick with it, which i'm sure you will want to after you try it, it really works. My body is so thankful for Neena and Veena. :)

this is the hottest work out i have ever done
Reviewer: samantha (sammysanderson@aol.com) leesburg v.a. 03-18-2006
any body who needs to lose 30-100lbs. needs this i got it two days ago and i already lost 5 lbs. so that is why you need to buy it

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