Any dancers on here?

emsypaige2602

I’m studying performing arts full time which requires me to attend up to 4 dance classes a day and to some people that may seem like nothing, but trust me the amount of times I’ve finished a class and not been able to see my self in the mirrors is too many to count. I was wondering if anyone else on here had a dance based plan and how you keep yourself motivated towards your goals. My main focus is my Look I want to get more toned and build up some strength but seeing other people improving so much when your doing the same classes can be really down heartening. Any tips? Thanks

Caroledeegee

I do up to 5 x 90 minute hard flamenco dance classes a week on top of working full time and commuting. Plus 20 hours a week four or five times a years intensive courses.

Are you eating enough and the correct quality food to fuel your dancing? Dancing at that level is the equivalent of being an athlete. Look at your nutrition firstly - as a dancer / athlete you need to have enough fuel in the engine for your dance training and performances and also your recovery.

My teacher recommends we do Pilates and some form of strength training when we can to help prevent injuries and aid recovery.

Good Luck

JoRocka

I'm a professional dancer- I train for 10-15 hrs a week in class plus upwards of 6 hrs of dance class on my own- plus gig time.

I don't have a good answer to how to stay motivated. I love dancing- even when I don't love dancing- I still love dancing. So for me long term training is super important. I wasn't classically trained- and I only go to intensives and regular classes- so I don't have experience with taking regular dance class for my schooling- it's something I chose to do on my own time as part of my professional training outside my regular work.

ritzvin

For physical appearance (looking 'toned'), [1] you'll need the muscle...from personal experience, you'll get much faster results from weight training than with dancing (pick a tried and tested program - see the bodybuilding forum, 40 minutes 2-3 times per week will make a difference within months). The increased strength will help with the dancing too. [2] be at a low enough body fat % for muscle definition to not be covered up by a layer of fat..so a calorie deficit if you are currently overweight. Keep the deficit small, however..you need to make sure you are fueling the dancing enough.