Dancer’s DIY: Tips and Tricks For Fuel And Recovery

Professional dancers are magical. They seem to defy gravity. They make it look effortless and fun. But ask any one of them and they will quickly let you know the strength, agility, and effort dance takes. You can make a DIY plan that will allow you to grow into the person you want to be.

Dancing improves your physical body, sharpens your mental abilities and improves your ability to sleep. Dance affects every part of your body! It is a great way to get and stay healthy.

We will share with you tips that dancers have shared with us. What works for one, doesn’t always work for another. But, some of the basics do not change. You may have to work at a slower level or make some minor adjustments, but the overall you are at the right starting point.

Before you begin

You would not play football without the proper gear. You wouldn’t go running, without the right shoes. So don’t dance without good dance leotards. Professional dancers usually practice in the best dance leotards.

By eating foods that are good for you and drinking lots of fresh water and wearing the right workout clothes, you are prepared mentally and physically for your dream of dancing.

Fuel

A well-balanced diet is essential for any dancer. Because the dancer uses a lot of fuel, he or she will need three balanced meals per day as well as two healthy snacks. Carbohydrates convert to fast fuel but are careful not to overdo it, or you will experience an inevitable crash.

Never eat on the run. Your body needs recovery time. When you stop to eat, you need to stop and allow your body to recover as it is refueled. Before you eat, sit quietly and take five deep breaths to get your blood circulation going,

Take the time to know what a food does to you. Pay attention to how it makes you feel. Dancing uses a lot of energy. High protein bars are great snacks but don’t only eat them. If you are not feeling your best, try a fast-acting snack like a piece of fruit. You may be somewhere in the middle. Chocolate milk gives you the carbs and sugar you need for immediate energy and has a good source of protein, and vitamins.

Learning to feed your body is a key factor. If you consume the foods for practice and don’t do the practice, you can put on pounds really quick. So, go slow, keep a record, and learn how to use your fuel.

As you incorporate dance into your new lifestyle, learn to listen to the things your body is telling you. Soon you will know by the way you feel, behave, and concentrate if something is off balance. As you grow into a healthy dancer, you will be glad you learned to act like one.

Sleep

Sleep is the most important part of our healthy lifestyle.  Sleep is the prime time when our bodies repair itself. Certain areas of the brain do not function when you are awake. You may have taught yourself to function on less sleep, but that does not equate to a good thing for your health. In order to perform your best and feel your best, you must sleep.

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