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For Dancers . . .

AyaKara
AyaKara Posts: 220
edited January 3 in Fitness and Exercise
In late 2014, I intend on using dance as my primary exercise full-time, cross-training with yoga, pilates, daily cardio, & 2-3x weekly strength training (compared with 6-7x).

I will most likely be using this set-up (with adjustments to prevent plateauing) for the rest of my life. Paired with healthy eating, would this be enough to maintain my slimness & toning, focusing on dance rather than fitness?

For other dancers, how do you cross-train with your dance style to keep your body the way that you prefer it?

Replies

  • Yogi_Carl
    Yogi_Carl Posts: 1,906 Member
    Hya - why wait so long if you are going to do it for life? Just curious.
  • AyaKara
    AyaKara Posts: 220
    I'm a student so it's hard to do so :laugh:

    There are two reasons:

    1. I'm still working on toning up, so by then I would be where I want to be in terms of fitness.

    2. In 2014 I'll be starting my PhD, so I'll be taking less classes & not have to work with all of my time to pay for school (PhDs in psychology are tuition free).

    I dance everyday right now but only take about 1 class a week with some performing. So, things will just be more convenient for me at that time. :smile:

    EDIT: Speaking of money, I need my career to be able to pay for all of the classes, yoga, pilates, etc. So there's that too :laugh:
  • Flowers4Julia
    Flowers4Julia Posts: 521 Member
    Hi there! I've danced since I was a little girl (I'm 54 now!) and have always enjoyed both the toning and cardio benefits and I bet you will too!

    Other than different forms of dance from ballet, tap, modern styles, etc. I have always walked and just been active. I do have an elliptical trainer at home as well. I don't mess around with weights or lifting as I am strong and lean without them.

    Dance is wonderful as it works the mind and emotions as well as the body. Couldn't ask for a better workout, but to each their own of course!

    Not sure I helped, good luck with you passions!
  • AyaKara
    AyaKara Posts: 220
    Thank you very much! This is a very inspiring, perfect-answer post. I really appreciate you responding to me, Julia. You make me almost want to give up strength training entirely, except that I do love it & want to be strong (while remaining lean for dance of course :laugh: ) I want to do pilates & yoga for posture-strengthening & flexibility, & keep up with them as I age for their benefits :smile:

    I'll keep everything that you said in mind! Thank you! :heart:
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