Tips for Staying Connected With Dance Over Summer Break

It’s officially summertime, and for many dancers, that means it’s time for a well-deserved break.

After months of rehearsals, performances, competitions, and travel it’s essential to give your body some rest and let it recover. However, taking a break doesn’t mean you have to stop dancing completely. In fact, summer break can be an excellent opportunity to improve your skills and technique without the added pressure of performances and competitions.

Staying connected with dance over summer break is important to take your skills to the next level. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of rest and improvement during summer break and give you some tips on how to use this time effectively.

Rest is essential.

First and foremost, it’s important to take some time off and rest your body. Dancing is a physically and mentally demanding activity, and your body needs a break to recover and prevent injury. Use this time to focus on self-care activities including

• Massages
• Stretching
• Acupuncture
• Pilates
• And other low-impact exercises.

If you’ve been struggling with injuries or chronic pain, now is an excellent time to seek professional help and start a rehabilitation program. A little bit of rest can go a long way in helping you come back stronger and more prepared for the upcoming season.

Keep it moving.

While rest is crucial, sitting on the couch all day is not the best way to recover. It’s important to keep moving and stay active. You can use this time to explore different dance styles or take classes in areas you want to improve. Attend summer intensives and workshops, or try out online classes. Another great way to stay active is to cross-train with some supplemental activities like yoga, swimming, cycling, or hiking. These activities can help you improve your endurance, flexibility, and overall fitness, which can benefit your dancing in the long run.

Hone your craft.

Summer break doesn’t have to mean a hiatus from dance training. Use this time to focus on areas of your dancing that need improvement. Take a closer look at your technique, footwork, and musicality. Work on new choreography, or create your own routines. Watch dance videos, attend performances, and seek inspiration from other creative works. Use this time to get better at your craft and come back to the studio with renewed passion and dedication.

Keep in touch with the world of dance.

As a budding or established dancer, it is vital to stay informed about your craft. An excellent platform for gaining insight is by reading online dance publications, such as this one. These sources provide advice from experienced dancers and choreographers, updates on industry developments, articles on advocacy in dance, and more. By immersing yourself in the world of dance, you boost your chances of success in your career. Keep up-to-date with the latest trends and knowledge; it will pay off in the long run.

Be mindful of burnout.

While summer break is an excellent opportunity for rest and improvement, be mindful not to overdo it. Burnout can happen when you push yourself too hard, too quickly. Remember, it’s okay to take it slow and enjoy your free time. Avoid setting unrealistic goals or expectations for yourself, and prioritize self-care and rest. Listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. Your physical and mental health should always come first.

Prepare for the upcoming season.

Finally, use this time to plan for the upcoming dance season. Start by setting your goals and priorities for the year. What do you want to achieve? What areas do you need to focus on? Plan out your training schedule, and make sure to include time for rest and recovery. Talk to your dance teachers and coaches about your goals, and ask for their input and advice. By setting clear goals and expectations for yourself, you can approach the upcoming season with confidence and enthusiasm.

Summer break can be a time of rest and rejuvenation, but it can also be an opportunity for improvement and growth. Use this time wisely by resting your body, staying active, improving your craft, being mindful of burnout, and planning for the upcoming season. Remember that taking care of yourself should always be your top priority, so enjoy your free time and come back to the studio ready to dance!

If you need some advice on how to find balance this summer, contact the experts at Evolution Dance Complex today! With our clinics, camps, and intensives, we can ensure you stay in shape and are dance-ready all summer long.