Dancing can be a great way to exercise in a fun and social way. But if you want to take your dancing to the next level you should supplement your dance fitness.
Cross training can improve skills and stamina in any sport. Dance is no exception. Many exercises will improve your fitness level while developing your dancing skills.
One “exercise” is simply to consider your posture when doing any physical activity, from running or walking to using the machines at the gym. You will improve your posture by associating the physical activity with thoughts of good posture and activation of your core muscles.
Another simple exercise is to stretch every morning. Ballroom dancers are notorious for not stretching enough. It can improve your flexibility and your ability to isolate muscle groups, which will benefit all your dancing.
Dance Station offers an Exercise Technique Class, at 2:45 p.m. every Sunday, which covers a number of dance-related exercises. The class gives you a weekly workout, and the simple exercises all are ones you can practice on your own.
There are many other options for improving your fitness. If you work out at a gym, be sure to tell your trainer that you are a dancer, and discuss the types of exercises that seem to fit in with your dance program. Yoga is a great for developing flexibility and strength. Nia classes inspire creativity and freedom of movement, while aerobic classes like Jazzercise help you build stamina.
Whether you are a gym rat or limit your exercise to a brisk morning walk, remember that exercising and cross training will boost your dancing as well.
Mary Brennecke is a teacher at Dance Station. If you would like to take lessons with Mary or any of our teachers call (505) 989-9788 to schedule a time.
Hi Mary,
I am a Nia Fitness teacher in Ontario, Canada AND a lover of all Movement Arts. This post popped into my google alert for Nia. Thanks for your great blog. I also study West African Dance and wanted to add that Nia has been great to prepare my body for the agility to move comfortably in all directions, and to integrate the upper and lower body– all great for other dance forms. I also find it good for cardio.
Your pictures look like you bring a lot of joy to the Santa Fe area. Yippee! Happy Thanksgiving from the cold, wet climate of Canada. Mary Baxter