04 Oct Training Tips Outside of the Studio
Dance is an art that requires the strength of an athlete. When you’re outside of class, you might not have the time for a Pilates class or an hour-long workout but crave the additional strength needed. Here are a few helpful ways to keep your body strong and healthy outside of the studio.
Find a core workout that works for you
In ballet, your core is your source of power. If you can find a core workout that suits your timeline, integrate it into your everyday life (our favorite, of course is Pilates). Think of little snippets of fitness sprinkled into your day, like – for example – trying a plank each day for about 30 seconds and progressing up to a full minute. Just as in ballet class, your form is critically important when completing any strengthening activity. Ensure that your form is correct to get the most out of your time. Make sure your shoulders are squared above your elbows, and your hips are up, making your body a straight line. Additional options are side lunges, crunches, and flutter kicks.
Treat your body well
If you’re staying up all night, wearing uncomfortable shoes, and late-night snacking, you’re not setting your body up for success. The quality of sleep you’re getting at night allows your body to recharge and your muscles to recover from class or any other strenuous activity. Similarly, if you’re wearing shoes that don’t correctly brace your heel, either flat with no arch support or high heels, you’re not doing your feet any favors—check-in with yourself. If you’re feeling tired, enduring headaches, or are experiencing pains in your feet, try to figure out what the leading cause might be. Allow your body to be in its best share before stepping into the studio for optimal results.
Heal your body from the inside out.
The best place to start get your body into its healthiest shape doesn’t come from deprivation or fad diets, instead feeding your body healthy foods and plenty of water. Whatever age you’re at, you’ve potentially stepped on the scale and seen a number you didn’t like. With the pressures in the world of ballet, living up to nearly impossible standards through fad diets and calorie counting can seem like the best route. In reality, the best thing you can do for yourself is to give your body a balanced diet filled with plenty of servings of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. You don’t have have to meet unreasonable standards to enjoy yourself in class fully. Be healthy and treat your body right.
Your body works hard for you in class. In addition to strengthening the muscles that are needed to be your best dancing self, you also need to make sure that you’re allowing your body to heal with sleep, plenty of water, and a balanced diet. Try these tips and track how you’re feeling during and after class over the course of 2-3 months. You’ll start noticing that you feel more energized and in greater control of your movements.