The DDA way

  Dance is a performance art. The dancer uses their body like a carefully sharpened pencil creating the art of the choreographer. Keeping a dancer's body strong and injury free should be one of the top priorities inside and outside the dance class. This can be rather challenging when the dancer is continually pushing to advance their skills or they are in a competitive season. For much of history dancers have been known to grind it out even through injury, however times have changed and that mentality no longer is what is supported.  So, you might question as a parent and definitely as a dancer how can I prevent injury inside and outside of the classroom?  As a certified personal trainer and dancer of 30+ years, I am hoping the information that follows will add insight on how to keep the dancer in tiptop condition all year round. Cross training Shoes Rest Myofascia release techniques Seeking medical advice Cross training: Like any athlete, dancers have seasons. One way to

  Ballet provides so many wonderful benefits for young children all the way to adults. I can often spot a ballet trained dancer just by seeing them walk by me at the grocery store due to their posture. Ballet has so many health and mental benefits so here's a list of 5 to provide a deeper understanding!  1. Posture Ballet trains the body to use so many muscle groups for posture all the way from around the shoulder blades, abdominals, hips, and even the neck to provide a long spine and support. Not only does it look beautiful but it creates graceful movements and allows for the body to organically move correctly even for turns, jumps, and extensions. One of the many posture tips I tell the beginning ballet students is to stand as if they are balancing a cup of hot chocolate on top of their head while they are doing slow movements at barre.  2. Technique base for all forms of dance Ballet provides a solid base that improves technique for every single style of dance (jazz, lyrical, et

We are in the final weeks of our dance school year and with it comes the anticipation of a break from the busy schedule of dance classes, rehearsals, performances, and competitions to a more relaxed time of being outside with friends, vacationing with family, and giving our bodies a rest. Before you pack your dance bag in the closet and grab your beach towel, you might want to consider some of the benefits of summer dance! Summer is the perfect time for discovery! Trying a new dance style that might become your new passion. Being challenged by a guest teacher during The Dream Dance Intensive . Or igniting your imagination in one of our themed camps or workshops. During the summer, kids can focus on dance without the stress of school work or other extracurricular activities in a positive and safe environment where they can express their creativity and be inspired while developing confidence, discipline, and independence. By continuing their training over the summer, dancers stay s