When we decide to learn to dance, we buy a pair of dance shoes, (or several), we might pick up a book on dancing, beef up our music library and of course sign up for lessons and classes. It is considered important to take these steps to demonstrate our serious intentions with regard to our new hobby. We all know that if we want to be accomplished at something we have to do it “right”. Time goes by, we find ourselves learning new steps and techniques, all the time getting better and better yet how can we make this process easier and more effective?
The answer is easy, Time. It takes time to develop your dancing to a level of mastery. To make the process easier it takes us being smart about how we use our dance time. The following are a few tips on using your time more efficiently to be a better dancer.
- Practice components – When learning a routine, it may prove helpful to run through it’s entirety for the purposes of memorization, otherwise, component practice is far more effective. If you are working on a Ballroom dance you might work on rise and fall or posture, in Latin, leg actions or turns. In all dancing we can always work on better development of our feet. Component practice allows your attention to be focused and prevents us from repeating bad habits.
- Practice in Slow Motion – Funny that to save time you should do it slower but it works. Practicing your dancing slowly allows you to build a greater awareness of the actions you are trying to create and is helpful in developing muscle memory.
- Review – Right before lesson take a moment to review what you did last time and right after a lesson take a moment to review the material of the day. This small commitment of time will provide great rewards if you can make it your habit.
- Be Kind to Yourself - Remember, to be an accomplished dancer we need to learn to enjoy the journey. Learning to dance can be as satisfying and enjoyable as the dancing itself. If you learn to enjoy the process you will find that you are more open and able to accomplish your goals and dreams.
April is a teacher at Dance Station. If you would like to take lessons with April or any of the teachers at Dance Station call 989-9788 to schedule.
