Check out our list of tips for dancers to keep active and healthy during the summer break in order to maintain and improve your technique for when you return to regular training.
Do take time over the summer to reflect on your year of dancing
- What was good about it?
- What was difficult?
- Was there anything missing from your training? (Including appropriate rest/recovery)
Don’t spiral into negative self talk about how your season “should” have been different
- Everyone’s dance journey looks different
- Dance is only one component of many that makes you who you are
- Be proactive about your dance goals
Do use the summer to try new things!
- Take a drop-in dance class in a style you’ve never tried before
- Attend classes at another studio or with another teacher for a change of pace
- Try non-dance activities like sports, Pilates, yoga, or cross-training
Don’t spend the summer as a couch potato and expect to pick up where you left off!
- It is okay to lessen your training over the summer and take time to mentally and physically recover from your season, but to completely stop all training for 2-3 months will make September extremely challenging and frustrating!
- A change of pace can help you clarify your goals
Do take time to rest and recharge!
- Treat injuries
- Spend time on other hobbies
- Seek inspiration for dance outside of the studio
Don’t beat yourself up for not being in class every day
- Summer intensives or camps are not possible for everyone and that is OKAY
- Even if you can’t get into a formal class, you can stay active at home, stick to a stretching and strengthening routine, and get creative with your choreographic skills!
Do think ahead about your upcoming season
- What classes are you looking forward to?
- What do you need to do for your season to be successful?
- Do your shopping (with yours truly at Freestyle Dancewear) EARLY
Don’t wait to plan for your needs
- Register for classes early to ensure you get a space
- The busiest time of year to shop for dancewear is early September – come to our Guelph or Kitchener boutiques in early August to ensure we have what you need in stock!
Do keep in touch with your dance friends!
- Have a video-watching party and celebrate your competitions and recitals together
- Get together outside of the studio and do something NON dance – discover each others non-dance skills!
Don’t forget that your dance teachers are spending their summers in courses and conventions to prepare for another season of teaching you!
- Bring your best attitude to classes in September
- Write your teachers a thank you letter for the past season (they will cherish this forever)!