STRETCHING?? WHY SHOULD I STRETCH?

Stretching is an important part of dance, no matter what the style. By stretching your muscles, you are increasing your range of movement. For instance with greater flexibility in your hamstring you are able to kick and leap higher. But most importantly flexibility also helps prevents injury. If your muscles are stiff and you make a sudden movement the muscle is at risk of tearing.

All dancers have the desire to be able to do the splits, hold their leg up besides their head or leap like ballerinas in the Australian Ballet. It all begins in with stretching.

Stretching can be very frustrating when you are trying your hardest and are seeing little results. It does take time BUT every little bit helps.

I have come across with some general tips to get you started:

Always remember the following when you stretch:
- Warm up first. Do about 10 minutes of aerobic activity like light jogging or do your stretching right after a class (don’t wait until you have sat in a car for 15 minutes getting home).
- Put on a layer or two, eg track pants and a jumper, so you don’t cool off too much while you stretch.
- Stretch slowly and smoothly, until you feel a stretch but never pain.
- Keep breathing and stay relaxed while you stretch. Holding your breath or trying too hard just makes your muscles tense up.
- Watch your body and joint alignment while you stretch.
- If you feel like you have injured yourself or you have pain which is not just sore muscles from stretching, stop, and see a health professional.
- Aim for a slow and steady improvement. Trying to get flexible too fast just leads to injuries and all sorts of aches and pains you don’t need. Remember that everyone’s body is different, some people are naturally flexible and some of us have to work a little harder to get there.

Try starting with just 15minutes a day and do it watching tv or listening to your favourite music. Make a goal, write it down and put a date on when you want to achieve it by. You will be amazed with the results.

stay tuned for further information and in the meantime come and try our stretch class on Wednesday at 4.45 - 5.30.

GOOD LUCK