How to Re-ignite Your Dance Skills After Quarentine: Tips for Newbies
Whether you are returning to dance after a period of quarentine or simply looking to improve your skills, the best advice is to enroll in classes as soon as possible. Self-teaching can lead to the formation of bad habits that could be challenging to unlearn, especially once they become ingrained in muscle memory. Here are some critical tips to help you re-ignite your dance skills and prevent injuries.
Don't Teach Yourself
Self-teaching in any field, but especially dance, is a slippery slope toward forming bad habits. When you attempt to learn on your own, you might end up with misconceptions or improper techniques that could take a long time to correct. For instance, something as simple as taking a step can involve a series of weight changes and foot placements which may not be intuitive when compared to everyday walking. Taking classes will allow a qualified instructor to correct these habits and help you avoid them in the first place. They also provide the proper environment, including sprung or floating floors, to prevent injuries such as shin splints or stress fractures.
Stay Safe and Strong
If you're unable to take classes due to the ongoing quarentine, consider incorporating forms of cross-training, such as yoga or Pilates, into your routine. These practices build lean and strong muscles, enhance the right kind of flexibility, and can serve as excellent cross-training exercises for dancers. Just be sure to practice on a surface that offers some cushion, like a yoga mat, to avoid overusing your joints and muscles.
Stay Positive and Open-Minded
While you might feel daunted by the idea of enrolling and being taught, it's important to overcome your pride. Professional dancers and teachers undergo extensive training and guidance. Without it, they would not be able to perform at the high levels they do. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow, and let your tutor guide you through the unknown. Remember, no one has ever taught themselves well without the help of a qualified instructor.
By enrolling in classes and staying consistent, you'll not only avoid the formation of bad habits but also benefit from the hands-on guidance and feedback that can only come from a professional. Your journey to becoming a skilled dancer starts now. Don't wait; go to classes with immediate effect.