Many people do not realize how much is going on with dance. Each part of the body needs to be in the appropriate place at the right time. Plus, there is the spatial factor of dancing with others on stage and the performance value that needs to come out of each dancer.
It may look simple and fun, but dancers know how much work needs to take place before and during a performance to be successful.
With this in mind, are you a new dancer struggling with the choreography, counts, spacing, and more? It can be overwhelming, but don’t let it get to you. Over time, your muscle memory will go to work and “remember” what your body should be doing. In the meantime, here are a few, key things to focus on while you’re dancing to improve your movements and your performance.
The Top 3 Things to Work on While Dancing
1. Are Your Legs Straight?
When you are doing a turn, are you on the highest point of the ball of your foot possible? If not, your turns will suffer. Whenever you turn, make sure your legs are straight when they need to be. This goes for kicks, leaps and floor work too. It can be easy to bend your leg a little, but this will significantly change the way you dance… for the worse.
2. Is Your Core Tight?
In most styles of dance, it’s essential to think of your stomach as the core of your body. By holding in your stomach and pulling up your body, you’ll be able to move better. You’ll have a more solid foundation for turns, better balance and you’ll even look taller.
As with your legs, it can be easy to slouch and let your stomach hang out. Don’t get lazy! By holding your stomach in, you’ll be a stronger dancer.
3. Are you Breathing?
Oh, right. Most dancers forget to breathe when they start moving. You need to keep breathing regularly to get oxygen into your body so you can actually move the way you need to during your performance.
More important, your body will be more relaxed when you breathe, and this will allow your body to move freely. Plus, your breathe helps your mind relax too. This way, you can feel the music and express your emotions without feeling stressed or nervous.
Don’t Sweat It.
There is a lot to think about when you’re dancing. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, focus on what’s important. Keep your legs straight when they need to be, hold in your stomach, and don’t forget to breathe.
Over time, your body will remember what you need to do, and you can focus on having a good time and expressing your emotions. Until then, try not to get lazy. Dance is a lot of work, and it takes practice, focus and time to become excellent at your craft!
