The Best Exercises for Ballet Dancers

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There is a lot of focus on ballet dancers for their lean, slender and sculpted body type. Many people actually search for an exact “ballet dancer routine” to help them get a sculpted body like that of a ballet dancer. The truth is the training involved in becoming a ballet dancer can be rigorous and often dangerous when dancers overuse their bodies.

There are several exercise tips a ballet dancer can follow to ensure that they stay conditioned, healthy and to prevent injury. Some beneficial exercises for a ballet dancer include:

• Exercises to strengthen the back and upper arms. A lot of attention is given to the legs and feet during dance. To avoid adding bulky muscle, skip the weights and use your own body weight such as push-ups.

• Ballet requires strong core muscles and you can protect your lower back by strengthening your core. Do exercises such as the plank or take yoga or Pilates, classes that often target this area. 

• Keeping up with the endurance ballet dancing requires will be tough without being in good cardiovascular shape. Leave the studio and get in 30 minutes of cardio a few times a week. Opt for more low impact options such as swimming or the stationary bike to reduce wear and tear on feet and ankles.

Dr. Tina Boucher, foot specialist in Meriden, CT works with all types of dancers. If you are just starting out or are a seasoned veteran but are dealing with foot pain, take care of your feet today. Contact our podiatric office at (203) 238-3668 or visit us online at www.centralctfootcare.com.

Related articles

• KC dancers audition for NY school
• Natalie Portman's husband to direct Paris Opera Ballet
• Stretch!

Line Dancing for the Country at Heart

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

“The one thing that can solve most of our problems is dancing.” - James Brown

It may not solve every one of life’s problems but it is definitely no secret that dancing has many benefits for the body and soul! It can lift up a tired spirit, unleash creativity, spark friendships and keep you healthy.

Line dancing is a style of dance in the country “culture” that offers all the same benefits as every other style of dance. It originated in folk dancing and started to be put to country music in the 1980s. It may not be as strenuous as other kinds but it is fun and easy for anyone to do. Two hours of line dancing is equal to taking a good walk for a couple of miles. It is a style that requires dancers to remember sequences of movements so engages the brain and memory, which is a great activity for older people.

The great thing about line dancing is that it is a low impact activity. Dr. Tina Boucher, foot specialist in Meriden, CT advises many of her patients with foot pain or injuries to find low impact or moderate level activities to keep feet safe while exercising. Line dancing fits that bill! It also helps strengthen bones and muscles, increase your stamina and flexibility and can help keep high blood pressure, heart disease and osteoporosis at bay.

If you are tired of your old workout routine, try line dancing and experience one of the many benefits it offers. If you experience any foot pain or need treatment for an injury, please call our podiatric office for help at (203) 238-3668. Visit us online as well at www.centralctfootcare.com.

Related articles

• Are Chuck Taylor's Good Dancing Shoes?
• 10 Best Country Line Dance Songs
• Line Dance Leader