1. Stay Hydrated and Choose Cooler Times for Practice

The intensity of summer heat necessitates staying well-hydrated. Dancers should make it a point to drink plenty of water throughout the day, particularly before, during, and after workouts to prevent dehydration and heatstroke. Opting to practice during cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late evenings, can also mitigate the summer heat, making workouts more comfortable and effective.

2. Break a Sweat Outdoors

Summer’s pleasant weather provides a perfect excuse to take some of your physical activities outside. Engaging in outdoor sports with friends, hiking through nature trails, or simply taking brisk walks can not only enhance your cardiovascular fitness but also strengthen social bonds. These activities offer a refreshing change of pace from the typical indoor dance practice, adding variety to your fitness regimen.

3. Cross-Train with Swimming

Swimming is not merely a leisurely activity to cool down but also an exceptional form of cross-training that complements dance. The buoyancy of water provides resistance without the strain on joints, making it an excellent choice for enhancing stamina and muscle strength. Regular swimming sessions can significantly improve a dancer’s endurance and physical capacity, vital for long dance sessions.

4. Incorporate Light Weightlifting

Dance routines often emphasize cardio and flexibility, but strength is equally critical. Light weight lifting can build and tone muscles, giving dancers more power and control in their movements. Integrating strength training into your weekly routine can bring about noticeable improvements in your overall dance performance.

5. Keep Practicing Your Existing Skills

If summer plans do not include regular dance classes, maintaining a routine of practicing existing dance skills is crucial. Dedicating specific times each week to go through your routines helps keep your skills sharp. This practice ensures you remain ready for more formal sessions and performances, maintaining a high level of dance proficiency.

6. Enroll in Summer Dance Classes

Summer dance classes offer a structured way to stay disciplined with your dance training. These classes not only keep you accountable but also provide a fun environment to learn new techniques and interact with peers. They are an excellent way to stay motivated, ensuring you continue to progress in your dance abilities without the burden of self-directing every session.

Stay on Top

Maintaining dance fitness over the summer is crucial for dancers who wish to stay in peak condition. These six tips provide practical ways to enjoy the summer while focusing on improving dance skills and physical health. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced dancer, integrating these strategies will help you enjoy a productive and enjoyable summer, keeping you fit, engaged, and ready to dance.

Reach Your Goals With Nan’s Dance!

At Nan’s School of Dance, our goal is to provide top-quality instruction at a competitive price. We encourage our students to reach technical proficiency in their favorite dance form and build self-discipline, poise, and self-esteem. We offer instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, and Pre-Dance, at all levels. 

We love having new members in our dance classes and will help get your child acclimated to our dance school to make them feel right at home. When your child attends Nan’s School of Dance, they will become a part of our dance family and share in our love for dance!

Don’t forget to register!

From ballet to hip hop, we offer dance classes for ALL ages and skill levels in a variety of styles. We place students in classes that will challenge them while offering a fun atmosphere for learning and growth. We also offer Mommy & Me classes, (18 months – 2.5 years). Register online or give us a call at 919-803-6044 to hold your spot!

*Feel free to follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Want to Read More About Dance?

Take a look at some of our other articles about dance.

• Dance advice: Why am I cramping?
• The Importance of Taking Care of Your Feet in Dance

Preparation Begins at the Studio

The foundation of a successful performance is laid in the countless hours spent in the dance studio. It’s where skills are honed, routines are memorized, and teamwork is built. The key is consistent practice, not just going through the motions but actively working on improving technique, strength, and expression.

Understand Your Dance: Knowing every step, beat, and emotion of your dance is crucial. Immerse yourself in the music and the story you’re telling through your movements.

Feedback is Golden: Regular feedback from your instructors can guide your practice sessions. Work on the areas they highlight and incorporate their advice into your routine.

Physical and Mental Well-being

A dancer’s body is their instrument, and like any fine-tuned instrument, it requires care and maintenance to perform optimally.

Nutrition and Hydration: Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated are essential, especially as competition day approaches. Fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to endure long rehearsals and recover faster.

Mental Preparation: The mental aspect of preparing for a competition is just as important as the physical. Visualization techniques, meditation, and positive affirmations can help ease anxiety and boost confidence.

The Week Before: Final Preparations

The week before the competition is a critical time for final preparations. It’s not just about rehearsing the routine; it’s about ensuring that every detail is polished to perfection.

Costume and Makeup: Ensure your costume fits perfectly and all accessories are accounted for. Practice your makeup and hair routine to ensure there are no surprises on the day of the performance.

Rehearsal with Props and Costumes: If your routine involves props or specific costumes, practice with them to ensure you’re comfortable and everything flows smoothly.

Competition Day: The Checklist

The day has finally arrived. Nerves are high, but so is the excitement. Having a checklist can help ensure that nothing is forgotten amidst the buzz of competition day.

Essentials Bag: Pack a bag with all your essentials—costume, makeup, hair accessories, spare tights, and any props you need for your routine. Don’t forget snacks and water to keep you energized and hydrated.

Warm-Up and Stretch: Give yourself ample time to warm up and stretch before your performance. This not only prepares your body but also helps calm your nerves.

Post-Performance Reflection

After the adrenaline of the performance wears off, take time to reflect on the experience. What went well? What could be improved? Use this as a learning opportunity to grow as a dancer.

Celebrate Your Achievement: Regardless of the outcome, celebrate the hard work and dedication you’ve put into reaching this point. Every performance is a step forward in your dance journey.

Feedback and Growth: Seek feedback from your instructors and peers. Constructive criticism is invaluable for your growth as a dancer.

Ongoing Growth: Beyond the Performance

Transitioning from rehearsal to performance is a journey of growth for every dancer. By following this checklist, you can navigate the process with confidence and grace. Remember, the goal is not only to perform flawlessly but to connect with the art of dance, conveying emotion and telling a story that resonates with your audience. Dance is a celebration of movement, a form of expression that transcends words, and a discipline that demands both physical and mental strength. Whether you’re stepping onto the stage for the first time or the hundredth, the magic of performance is a testament to your dedication and love for dance.

Reach Your Goals With Nan’s Dance!

At Nan’s School of Dance, our goal is to provide top-quality instruction at a competitive price. We encourage our students to reach technical proficiency in their favorite dance form and build self-discipline, poise, and self-esteem. We offer instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, and Pre-Dance, at all levels. 

We love having new members in our dance classes and will help get your child acclimated to our dance school to make them feel right at home. When your child attends Nan’s School of Dance, they will become a part of our dance family and share in our love for dance!

Don’t forget to register!

From ballet to hip hop, we offer dance classes for ALL ages and skill levels in a variety of styles. We place students in classes that will challenge them while offering a fun atmosphere for learning and growth. We also offer Mommy & Me classes, (18 months – 2.5 years). Register online or give us a call at 919-803-6044 to hold your spot!

*Feel free to follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Want to Read More About Dance?

Take a look at some of our other articles about dance.

• Dance advice: Why am I cramping?
• The Importance of Taking Care of Your Feet in Dance

1. Master Your Technique
   • No matter your dance style, technique forms the foundation of every great dancer. Take the time in 2024 to focus on refining your technique. This could involve your regular practice sessions, or going a step farther to find private lessons. Strengthen your core, improve your posture, and work on the nuances of your chosen style. A solid technical foundation not only enhances your performance but also prevents injuries, ensuring a long and fulfilling dance journey.
2. Explore New Dance Styles
   • Routine can be the enemy of creativity. Break out of your comfort zone by exploring dance styles outside of your usual one. If you’re a hip-hop dancer, try a ballroom class. If you love classical ballet, dip your toes into contemporary dance. The beauty of dance lies in its diversity, and embracing new styles can broaden your passion, inspire fresh ideas, and make you a more versatile dancer.
3. Set Performance Goals
   • Whether it’s a local recital, a community event, or a school stage, set performance goals. Having a tangible goal to work towards can provide motivation and a sense of purpose in your dance practice. It could be as simple as practicing choreography more often outside of the studio or speaking up when you need help. Performances not only showcase your skills but also offer the chance to connect with an audience and share the joy of dance.
4. Prioritize Self-Care
   • Dance can be physically demanding, and it’s crucial to prioritize self-care in your dance resolutions for 2024. Make sure to warm up properly before each practice, cool down afterward, and listen to your body. Incorporate cross-training exercises to build strength and flexibility. Adequate rest and recovery are just as important as rigorous practice, so schedule rest days to prevent burnout and keep your body in peak condition.
5. Build/Improve Your Friendships
   • Dance is a communal art form, and building a supportive dance community can enhance your experience. Focus on creating lasting friendships with fellow dancers. Attend workshops, join dance groups on social media, and engage with dancers from different studios. Sharing experiences, collaborating on projects, and receiving constructive feedback from peers can enrich your perspective and contribute to your growth as a dancer.
6. Perform with Passion
   • Dancing every day or many times a week can be draining physically and mentally. It’s hard to lose the feeling of enjoyment when you’re doing the thing you love the most. Try new things to spark your flame again. Start by revisiting why you started dancing and your favorite memories. Once you start to remember the excitement you’ll be anticipating your next class. 

New Year, New You

As you step into 2024, let these dance resolutions guide your path to becoming the dancer you aspire to be. Whether you’re aiming to perfect your technique, explore new styles, set performance goals, prioritize self-care, each resolution contributes to a more fulfilling and transformative dance journey. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and dance your way into a year of artistic growth and joy!

Reach Your Goals With Nan’s Dance

At Nan’s School of Dance, our goal is to provide top-quality instruction at a competitive price. We encourage our students to reach technical proficiency in their favorite dance form and build self-discipline, poise, and self-esteem. We offer instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, and Pre-Dance, at all levels. 

We love having new members in our dance classes and will help get your child acclimated to our dance school to make them feel right at home. When your child attends Nan’s School of Dance, they will become a part of our dance family and share in our love for dance!

Don’t forget to register

From ballet to hip hop, we offer dance classes for ALL ages and skill levels in a variety of styles. We place students in classes that will challenge them while offering a fun atmosphere for learning and growth. We also offer Mommy & Me classes, (18 months – 2.5 years). Register online or give us a call at 919-803-6044 to hold your spot!

*Feel free to follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Want to Read More About Dance?

Take a look at some of our other articles about dance.

• Dance advice: Why am I cramping?
• The Importance of Taking Care of Your Feet in Dance

Attend a dance performance

One of the most obvious ways to enjoy dance outside of the studio is to attend a dance performance. There are plenty of options to choose from, including ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, and more. Check your local performing arts center, theater, or dance company to see what performances are coming up in your area. You might be surprised by the variety of shows available.

Join a dance group or club

Another way to enjoy dance outside of the studio is to join a dance group or club. Many communities have dance groups that meet regularly to practice and perform different types of dance. Look for a group that matches your skill level and interests, and be sure to attend their events and performances.

Dance at a social event

Dancing at a social event is a great way to have fun and enjoy the company of others. Whether it’s a wedding, a party, or a night out with friends, dancing can be a fun and exciting way to let loose and express yourself. If you’re not comfortable dancing in public, start by dancing in a more private setting with a trusted friend or partner.

Take a dance-inspired workout class 

If you want to stay fit and active while also enjoying dance, consider taking a dance-inspired workout class. Many gyms and fitness centers offer classes like Zumba, Barre, or dance cardio that incorporate dance moves into a high-energy workout. These classes are a great way to improve your fitness while also having fun.

Dance at home 

Finally, don’t forget that you can always dance at home! Turn up your favorite music, clear some space, and let yourself move to the beat. Dancing at home can be a great way to relax and de-stress, and it’s a perfect activity for a rainy day or a lazy Sunday.

So why Nan’s school of dance?

At Nan’s School of Dance, our goal is to provide top-quality instruction at a competitive price. We encourage our students to reach technical proficiency in their favorite dance form and build self-discipline, poise, and self-esteem. We offer instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, and Pre-Dance, at all levels. 

We love having new members in our dance classes and will help get your child acclimated to our dance school to make them feel right at home. When your child attends Nan’s School of Dance, they will become a part of our dance family and share in our love for dance!

Don’t forget to register!

From ballet to hip hop, we offer dance classes for ALL ages and skill levels in a variety of styles. We place students in classes that will challenge them while offering a fun atmosphere for learning and growth. We also offer Mommy & Me classes, (18 months – 2.5 years). Register online or give us a call at 919-803-6044 to hold your spot!

*Feel free to follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Want to Read More About Dance?

Take a look at some of our other articles about dance.

• How To Create the Perfect Dance Space in Your Home
• How Rest Plays a Part in Dance

Dance and Journaling

At Nan’s School of Dance, we believe that keeping a journal could be very beneficial to our dancers. Dancers express themselves through a non-verbal platform. They express themselves through their movements in the art of dance, but given the chance to express themselves on paper could prove to improve their quality of dance and artistic expression!

Types of Journal Writing

There are many different types of journal writing.

• Organizational, which is used for lists, schedules, data and idea collection.
• Pragmatic journaling is when you write what you did, what you will do, any achievements or failures, etc.
• Idealistic journaling is when you write about your dreams, hopes for the future, goals, and ambitions.
• Emotional journaling is when you reflect on your feelings, and or a critique of them.

The Benefits of Journal Writing

Achieving Goals

When you write down your goals, it signals to your brain that “this is important.” Give yourself clear instructions on what you want to achieve. The more detailed, the better. This provides a mental blueprint and increases the likelihood of achieving your goals.

Boost Memory

You form words and ideas as you write, which causes the mind to compose or re-compose the ideas while journaling. This strengthens previously covered information and forces you to engage in cognitive recall. This can be especially helpful when needing to remember choreography!

Strengthens Self Discipline

Setting time aside to write each day is an act of discipline. Like a muscle, the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. Habits that are formed in one area of life tend to spread. This means your daily practice of writing could spill over into other healthy habits!

Spark Your Creativity and Inspire Yourself

Be brave, and do not overthink it. In fact, you can write without thinking. Stream-of-consciousness writing is when you write every thought down without editing. Whatever you think…you write! This is a great writing exercise and can bring out thoughts and ideas you never knew you had. It can also help with writer’s block and get your creative juices flowing! Write your dreams. Write about people who inspire you. Write about things you’re grateful for, and prepare to be inspired.

How To Get Started

Begin small. It only takes a few minutes every day.

You do not need to start out with high expectations. Take it slow, start off with just a few minutes a day, every day. Once you have formed the habit, you can put more time into it.

Integrate the new habit into an old one.

Pick a time to include writing in your daily routine. It’s a lot easier to start and maintain a new habit when it’s incorporated into something you already do.

Don’t put any pressure on yourself; it’s okay if it’s messy.

This journal is for your eyes only. Remember, it does not have to be perfect, not even close. Just be honest in your writing and be yourself.

If you don’t know what to write about, write about what you’re grateful for.

Research shows that practicing gratitude writing can directly impact your happiness. Writing down what you’re grateful for and reflecting on those things can help you feel happier.

Begin with a friend

Do you have a friend that enjoys journaling as much as you do? Set up a system to hold each other responsible.

Why Nan’s School of Dance?

At Nan’s School of Dance, our goal is to provide top-quality instruction at a competitive price. We encourage our students to reach technical proficiency in their favorite dance form and build self-discipline, poise, and self-esteem. We offer instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, and Pre-Dance, at all levels.

We love having new members in our dance classes and will help get your child acclimated to our dance school to make them feel right at home. When your child attends Nan’s School of Dance, they will become a part of our dance family and share in our love for dance!

Don’t Forget to Register!

From ballet to hip hop, we offer dance classes for ALL ages and skill levels in a variety of styles. We place students in classes that will challenge them while offering a fun atmosphere for learning and growth. We also offer Mommy & Me classes, (18 months – 2.5 years). Register online or give us a call at 919-803-6044 to hold your spot!

Interested in a Birthday Party or Summer Camp?

At Nan’s School of Dance, our parties are designed to be fun for kids and easy for parents! We provide a large studio room for food, drinks, and cake with a Party Professional that will lead your birthday party guests through an hour and a half of dance party fun. For more information, check out our website at www.nansdancenc.com.

We also provide summer camp opportunities, for more information, check out our website or give us a call at (919) 803-6044.

Want to Read More About Dance?

Take a look at some of our other articles about dance.

• How To Improve Your Dance Memory
• How To Get the Most Out of Your Dance Lessons

*Feel free to follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

It’s the new year, so it’s time to get re-inspired! It doesn’t matter how much you love dance, at some point, every dancer experiences a lack of motivation. Maybe you’re just a little tired or getting bored of the routine. Whatever your slump looks like, it’s normal to go through a period where you lack the inspiration to keep working on your dancing goals.

Our dance experts at Nan’s School of Dance understand that slumps are common and realize it’s ok to get in one. However, we also know that sometimes all you need is a little motivation to get going again. To help boost your desire to get up and dance, we put together some tips on how to get inspired this New Year!

Attend a Performance

After working so hard in the dance studio, it is easy to forget why you fell in love with dance in the first place. Sometimes you need a little reminder of why you truly enjoy the art of dance. Going to a dance performance is a great way to rediscover your love for this art. Go see a new dance company or maybe an old favorite, watch them perform and let that beauty wash over you and get you inspired to want to perform again!

Read About Dance

Another great way to become re-inspired is reading about dance or a famous dancer. Reading is a great way to relax, and reading about something you love can help boost your motivation. Reading a dancer’s autobiography might help you see that others experience similar highs and lows, and reading about someone’s dance journey can inspire you to do the same. If a book isn’t your thing, maybe try an audiobook or podcast!

Explore the Arts

When you’re feeling a little trapped in your dance life, try exploring a different creative or performing art. Try painting or drawing. Take a voice lesson or join an acting class. All the arts have some common ground and can overlap, you may find that practicing a different form of art can reinvigorate your creativity and reinspire you to dance.

Take a New Class

Dancers are very good about sticking to their routines and being disciplined when it comes to their dancing. However, sometimes shaking things up a bit can help you find some inspiration. Maybe the new year is the perfect time to take a different class to change things up a bit. Adding a new class to your routine can help you branch out and grow. Your body and your mind will appreciate the variety!

Buy a New Dance Outfit

It is no surprise that what you wear can have a huge impact on how you feel. So why not switch out some of your dance clothes for something new that makes you feel good? When you feel comfortable and confident in how you look, it can re-inspire you to want to perform and do your best.

New Year, New tips, New you!

So now that you know five different ways to get yourself ready to dance in the New Year, why don’t you pick a few and try them out? We are sure that you will re-discover your love for dance, and you will be thrilled for what 2023 has in store for you!

Want to Read More About Dance?

Take a look at some of our other articles about dance.

• How To Get the Most Out of Your Dance Lessons
• How To Strength Train Your Legs for Dance

So why Nan’s school of dance?

At Nan’s School of Dance, our goal is to provide top-quality instruction at a competitive price. We encourage our students to reach technical proficiency in their favorite dance form and build self-discipline, poise, and self-esteem. We offer instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, and Pre-Dance, at all levels.

We love having new members in our dance classes and will help get your child acclimated to our dance school to make them feel right at home. When your child attends Nan’s School of Dance, they will become a part of our dance family and share in our love for dance!

Don’t forget to register!

From ballet to hip hop, we offer dance classes for ALL ages and skill levels in a variety of styles. We place students in classes that will challenge them while offering a fun atmosphere for learning and growth. We also offer Mommy & Me classes, (18 months – 2.5 years). Register online or give us a call at 919-803-6044 to hold your spot!

*Feel free to follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram