Stay in Shape This Summer: Tips for Dancers
Summer break may mean a pause from regular dance classes, but that doesn’t mean your training has to stop completely! Staying active during the summer will help you maintain your technique, prevent injury, and come back stronger when the season starts again. Here are some fun and easy ways to stay in shape all summer long:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Summer heat can sneak up on you—especially during outdoor activities or workouts. Always keep a water bottle nearby and aim to drink throughout the day, not just when you're thirsty. Hydration keeps your muscles healthy and helps prevent fatigue or cramping.
🧘♀️ Stretch Every Day
Take just 10–15 minutes a day to stretch. Focus on hamstrings, hips, calves, and back flexibility. Consistency is key—this is the perfect time to improve your splits or master that bridge!
💃 Take a Summer Class (or Two!)
Check out drop-in classes, intensives, or online tutorials. Even one or two classes a week can make a big difference in keeping your muscle memory sharp and your technique clean. Bonus: You might get to try a new style you wouldn’t normally take!
🏖 Make Movement Fun
Go for a swim, take a hike, ride a bike, or try a yoga or Pilates video on a rainy day. Dancing doesn’t always have to happen in the studio—staying active in different ways is great for your body and your creativity.
🎧 Make a Practice Playlist
Put together your favorite songs from the year and freestyle, choreograph, or practice technique at home. This is a great way to keep your performance muscles engaged and stay connected to the joy of dancing.
🥗 Fuel Your Body Right
Healthy summer snacks like fruits, veggies, smoothies, and lean proteins give your body the energy it needs to stay strong. Avoid too many sugary drinks or salty snacks that can leave you feeling sluggish.
📆 Set a Summer Goal
Whether it’s improving your balance, working on a specific trick, or just staying consistent with stretching, having a goal gives you motivation to keep moving. Write it down and check your progress every week!
Remember: Rest is important too! Take time to recharge and enjoy your summer—but don’t forget that a little movement every day adds up. Stay strong, stay hydrated, and keep dancing through the sunshine!
Written by: Rebecca Edmonds
