"Why be good when you can be great!" (Ibrahim Farrah)

We all think in terms of the final performance but there is more to dance than that. The performance is just the final culmination of a lot of preparatory work. If you don’t prepare you cannot do your best work. "There ain’t no free lunch. " So here are a few ideas on how to get in shape for that special performance or for any performance. This will extend your performance career.

1. THE FLEXIBILITY FACTOR:

A. YOGA

Yes, you do need to work on flexibility. If you aren’t flexible, and we all have different levels of flexibility, you cannot dance. The best way to attain this is by the practice of Yoga. This ancient system of exercise, develops strength and suppleness, makes the perfect fitness sense for dancers. In the competitive world of dance where it is usual to push to better yourself, yoga is gentle and gets body and mind together. Proper breathing is at the heart of yoga, for overall health benefits and relaxation. Look for something positive, supportive and no-competitive. Yoga is a gradual process. Be consistent with your approach. This is a great form of exercise that can be done alone.

2. PILATES

Get long, lean and strong. The secret to the willowy Pilates look is the development of a strong core. If you do these exercises properly you will get toned but never bulky. It improves abdominal stabilization. In Pilates breathing demands concentration. It is the foundation. The deep muscles work and not the superficial ones. This form does need expert help in the beginning, at least.

2. TECHNIQUE OF THE MIND:

Train Your Creative Brain. Technique can sometimes be mind over matter. Explore a variety of creative arts to enhance your dance.

1. Get backstage experience.

2. Take a drama class.

3. Take an art class.

4. Learn more about the music.

5. Watch dance videos (especially those of the masters)

6. Take a mime class.

7. Memorize a poem.

8. Learn to play an instrument.

9. Work with people less fortunate than yourself.

3. ENDURANCE FOR DANCE:

Aerobics

Cardiovascular fitness enables you to dance longer. The best part of aerobic conditioning is it enables you to have more energy, stamina , endurance and burns fat. If you don’t want to do a class or a video try walking, jump rope or swimming. You should work out 20 -30 minutes 3x per week.

4. NUTRITION:

Shape Up Your Diet

Put your diet in tip top shape . Replenish fluids early and often. Even if you don’t think you are thirsty-drink! Caffeine drains your body fluids. Eat less animal foods. Eat lots of fruit and vegetables. Eat 3 meals a day. Variety is important. Stay away from fast food places. Carry water to class.

5. INCREASE YOUR RANGE

Gain Strength

Get into your best shape by adopting a physical fitness program. Try it in a pool. Do some weight training. Target some weak areas. Take a ballet class. This can help with posture, abs, upper body and arms to name just a few helpful areas. Strong abs give you a better line, better posture and a stronger back.

6. BREAKING BOUNDARIES

Challenge Yourself to Reach Beyond Dance

Stuck in a dance rut? Re-energize by developing other facets of yourself.

If you do try choreography, try improvisation. If you do improvisation, try choreography. Experience new ways to move. Try new classes.

Brain storm your performance. Mind games help your head get in sync with your body. Start with your breathing. Engage your imagination. Your imagery is a very powerful tool. You use it in technique class . The way you dress can influence the way you feel. Imagine yourself in a variety of roles. Stay focused!!

Is it time for PRIVATE COACHING? Do you feel like you have hit a plateau? Take a private lesson to improve your technique. Why privates? Because when you study in a one-on-one situation you get personalized exercises to help you improve your weak areas. Everything depends on the needs of the student. A good coach will help you present your body to its best advantage. You will learn your best angle , what you should show - and what you shouldn’t.. Many professional dancers hire expert coaches to help, they can help bring out the best in you. You need to find someone who has an extensive background in dance. You need to know where they have danced and who they have studied with. You need someone who will work on your talents and doesn’t strip you of your personality.

Work hard and be patient. Not even the best teacher in the world can give you a quick fix. It takes time for your body to be working in the correct way. You have to do it consistently until your body does it naturally.

Most of all enjoy this most beautiful art form. Have a great fall. This is the time to get back to studies and set your goals for the future. Dance, dance, dance!

"LIFE MAY NOT BE THE PARTY WE HOPED FOR, WHILE WE ARE HERE WE SHOULD DANCE."

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Arabic Danse Academie & The Oasis Boutique
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Mailing address: 3337 Tournament Drive, Oceanside, CA 92056
(760) 757-4470  Fax: (760) 722-3280   
Email: ADAcomplex@danceranddrummer.com
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