Cross-training for dancers

In this video David Popoli, M.D. from Children's Heathcare of Atlanta, reinforces the importance of cross-training for dancers.  By changing up the type of physical work we are doing for our bodies, we utilize different muscle groups and strengthen other parts of the body that we don't typically use.  By incorporating things other than dance into our weekly routine, we can improve balance and stability, develop core strength, and increase power.  It will not sacrifice our skills as dance artists, but improve them -- I promise :)    

Dancers usually want only to DANCE DANCE DANCE, and it's often a struggle to find time (and the energy) to do other things outside an already rigorous workload.  He recommends yoga, pilates, or even simply changing up the type of dance class you are taking in order to work those other muscle groups more efficiently.  Whatever you do, finding the time is essential. 

The NYSSSA students will be heading to the weight room on campus tomorrow to explore some resistance training with free weights.  Stay tuned for those photos!

And check out (video below) the students in yesterday's workout featuring squats, reverse lunges, single leg hamstring reach (roman dead lift) and the pelvic bridge.