Becoming a Better Dancer
Becoming a better dancer
So you want to become a better dancer? Becoming a better dancer and improving your dancing ability requires a lot of hard work. It is not as simple as one day deciding your going to become a better dancer, it is the amount of hard work that you put behind it. Anyone can improve their dancing by following the few simple steps listed below.
#1 Stretch
The key to flexibility is stretching. No matter what type of dance you are trying to do stretching is very important. It can help to keep your body limber and prevent you from straining a muscle. Stretch as frequently as you can, before you dance, after you dance, and even when your not dancing at all. Send at least 15 minutes a day five days out the week stretching and I will promise you that you will see great improvement in your flexibility and along with your dancing. So remember, stretch as often as you can.
#2 A positive attitude
One thing you must always have when dancing is a positive attitude. No matter how hard the dance may be or learning a trick may be, maintaining a positive attitude is one of the most important things. Whining or talking about how you can't do this or that will only hinder you from progressing. Having a positive attitude can also influence others to do the same, making it a more comfortable environment all together and as long as you maintain a positive attitude good things will follow.
#3 Practice, practice, practice
I can not stress that enough.You now the saying, "Practice makes perfect" it's true you know. Of course nothing can be perfect, but practicing can improve everything. The more you practice, the more you become comfortable with yourself, the moves, and/or tricks. You can't become better if you do not practice. I know everyone may not have the time to do so, but honestly it doesn't matter where you practice. I often find myself practicing different dance combinations in the shower or walking down the street, it may not be full out but it is practice and by doing so I'm putting those moves into my muscle memory. The more you practice, the more you'll be able to concentrate on the movement rather than what comes next. So, practice, practice, PRACTICE!
#4 Research
Another important tip is to always do your research. You can do this be attending various concerts and shows, watching videos on youtube (which I always find myself doing), or even reading different articles online or in dance magazines. The resources are endless if you ask me. I always find myself watching or reading something that is some way shape of form related to dance. So, the resources are out there so take advantage of them.
#5 Attend dance workshops
Many dancers and studio owner host different dance workshop or even offer classes to the public for around $10/class depending on who is teaching. Contact local dance studios and ask them is they offering any workshops or master classes. Chances are that there will be one in the near future and if you don't have the money save ahead of time. Make a dance fund jar and fund your classes on random change you find around the house, whatever works. Along with dance workshops and classes, different dance companies hold summer intensives, where you spend a week or so training with different choreographers and such. Although this may be very costly, you can opt out of staying in the housing unites and become a commuter. Trust me it will save you a couple hundred, but if your too far away it may not be an option.
#6 Have Fun!
The most important rule of dancing is to have fun. The more fun that you have the more comfortable you be with the movements. Even if your not perfect it's important that you have fun!