7 simple steps to stay fit in the holidays!

7 simple ways to stay fit in the holidays

When your dancer has a busy schedule (and really who doesn’t) holidays are an essential part of their training. We all know how important it is to let your body relax during the holidays. Reconnect with siblings, spend time with family and let your body rest.

However, every dancer knows the pain of first week of the year classes… often no bath soak, massage or deep heat can help. Here are 7 simple ways you can keep up your fitness during the holidays.

1. Swimming

With Australia’s scorching Christmas months this one is an easy one. Whether you are lucky enough to have a pool at home, live near the beach or frequent the local public pool swimming is an amazing way to stay cool and keep fit.

Invest in a kick board and do some kicking or swimming laps up and back, or even some under water running is amazing for your fitness and low impact too which is great for those dancing legs.

BONUS – You’ll be nice and cool too!!

2. Walking

Give your body some vitamin D and get out and about in the fresh air. Walk along the beach if you can or in the park or even around your local streets, the fresh air will do you the world of good.

3. At home barre

Set up a chair in your lounge room and take yourself through a simple barre class. If you’re not sure you can always ask your teacher ahead of time to borrow some music or to record one of your classes to follow at home.  

4. Stretch

There will no doubt be a few movies you’re looking forward to watching on your time off. A great way to stay class fit is to do some stretching in the holidays. In front of the tv, at the park, in your bedroom wherever you can find the time and space. Remember to go easy though… you’ve had some time off remember!

5. Take a Class… NOT Dance!

There are lots of great classes at local gyms or fitness studios that will help keep you in shape. Gym classes, spin classes, Xtend Barre (or other barre classes), pilates or yoga are all fantastic classes for dancers. Stay in shape and enjoy doing something different.

6. Practice

Clear the lounge room and spend some time practicing those solos. Even if you’re not doing nationals or comps at the beginning of the year keep those solos fresh in your mind so you’re all set for your first lesson back.

You can also practice your exam work. Chances are you’ve probably started your exam work for the upcoming year.   Get a head start and make sure you remember the work for the new term. If you’re unsure of the work you can ask your teacher if you can record the work before the end of term.

7. Improvise

Put on your favourite music and dance… it’s that simple. Don’t over think it, or over complicate it, just start by moving to the music. You will be surprised with what you come up with.

Enjoy Your Holidays!