You’ve got your dance shoes and your dance bag. You’re ready to practice, right? Not so fast! If you want to stay in shape, learn new moves, or just have fun at dance class, there are some things that you should know. Here are some tips for stretching before class or rehearsing at home:
Don’t forget to stretch or warm up before you dance.
When you go to the gym, the first thing you do is stretch and warm up. The same should be true when you practice dance. Before putting on your shoes and getting ready to dance, take a few minutes to stretch out your muscles and joints by doing some basic exercises such as toe touches or lunges. This will help prevent injury during practice as well as keep your body healthy overall!
Get enough sleep.
Sleep is a key part of recovery and growth for your body. If you’re not getting enough sleep, your body will not be able to recover from the day’s activities. Your muscles won’t get as much rest, which means they won’t grow as much when they’re working out–and your brain won’t be able to process information as well either!
Eat well and drink water.
It’s important to eat well and drink water before you practice. Eating a healthy snack or meal can give you the energy needed for an intense workout, while drinking plenty of water will help keep your body hydrated. If possible, try eating something that contains carbohydrates (like bread) and protein (like meat). This combination will provide long-lasting fuel for working out, as opposed to simple sugars which may only last for 30 minutes or so before they wear off.
If possible, try eating something that contains carbohydrates (like bread) and protein (like meat). This combination will provide long-lasting fuel for working out, as opposed to simple sugars which may only last for 30 minutes or so before they wear off
Rest after dancing
- Don’t overdo it. If you are practicing for an hour and a half, that’s great! But if you feel like your muscles are getting sore or tight, take a break. You can also use this time to eat or drink something healthy that will help replenish your body after dancing so hard.
- Relax your muscle. After taking a break from dancing for 10-15 minutes (or however long feels right), stretch out your muscles before returning back into practice mode. These kinds of movements will help loosen up stiff joints which would otherwise inhibit movement during dance class later on in day. Also you can use a fascia gun or find a people to massage your muscle, which is also help with recovery.
Remember to always take care of yourself as a dancer. You are in an occupation that requires a lot of physical activity, so it’s important that you stay healthy and rested. Take the time to stretch or warm up before dancing, eat well and drink water throughout the day, get enough sleep at night (8 hours minimum), and rest after dancing!
