Warming up is essential to any physical activity in which to prepare and protect the body, and dance is no exception (and no matter the style!) Conversely, some students may think they are warming up correctly and efficiently, but they may be seen bouncing through stretches, merely doing a few ankle rolls and chatting to their neighbour on the barre while they ‘get ready’ for such intense physical activity.
It is important to arrive to dance class in good time, not as your teacher is preparing the music to begin. Doing your own preparations for class is vital – you know your body best. If a warm up is part of your class, this is an integral part and cannot be missed. Wearing layers for this part of class helps to heat the body externally, whilst the movements you work through warm the body’s muscles and joints from the inside out. If your teacher allows it, adding layers to your usual dancewear can help keep your muscles warm and therefore more receptive.
Whilst a warm up is vital for dance, remember to ease your body into the movement and not go full throttle straight away. It can be tempting to do too much too soon before your body is prepared, especially when it is warm outside and in the studio, and your muscles feel overly pliable. It is important to take even more care here. In general, listen to your body and work on what it needs to perform correctly and safely during class. Gentle stretches will increase your range of motion whereas extreme stretches put undue pressure on the joints and muscles which can cause injuries before you have even begun.
Find out what works best for your body during a warm up, whether it is by working on simple exercises at the barre or increasing blood flow to muscles more quickly by jogging on the spot. Warm ups can also be a time to gather your thoughts before class and prepare for what you will learn. Concentrate on yourself and your body, and how to get the best out of it.