As a dancer, your body is your most significant instrument! When your body isn’t feeling well, you can’t dance your best. Here are some nutrition, hydration, and training guidelines to help you keep your body in top dance shape. ALSO READ : MISTAKES YOU ARE DOING AS A DANCER
How To Take Care Of Your Body To Improve Your Dancing
- Eat a Dancer-Friendly Diet
If you have joint or muscle discomfort, eat a lot of raspberries (which are high in Vitamin C) or drink red raspberry tea. If you’re having trouble concentrating in class, up your antioxidant intake!
Antioxidants such as those found in blueberries and green tea can aid with focus and memory. Also, ensure that you eat at least 1-2 hours before you begin dancing. Your supper should be high in complex carbs to keep you energised during class or rehearsal.
Make a fruit/veggie smoothie to take with you if you’re dancing for an extended period of time.
- Stay hydrated
A dancer’s cardinal rule is to always have a water bottle on hand.
Also, eat foods high in water, such as watermelon, strawberries, broccoli, and cucumbers.
During extended sessions or workshops, drink water and nibble on these. You’ll be completely hydrated the entire time!
- Include a Dance Performance Warm-up and cool-down exercises
Many of us begin our dancing classes with a static stretch, but you should first warm up your body before stretching.
Begin with some jumping jacks, running in place, or song grooves. And, after you’ve finished dancing, don’t sit or lay down right away; give your body time to calm down.
- Stretch on a regular basis to keep your body flexible and boost your range of motion.
- Strengthening exercises
Lifting weights not only improves muscle strength, but it also helps you hit harder and with better control. If lifting isn’t your thing, try pilates, rock climbing, or swimming as alternative conditioning exercises.
- Take a Break From Dancing
Yes, you want to dance despite the discomfort, but injury or tiredness are usually indicators that your body needs to rest or heal. You’ll only make things worse if you dance on a sick or damaged body. Take a break if you need to.
It’s not a setback, but rather an investment in the future. If you have recurring or frequent pain, see a doctor or physical therapist. You want to be able to dance for as long as possible, not burn out!