Minimising injury when returning to dance

When term holidays are over and you're back to the studio, it's easy to return with free abandon, high-kicking as you go. However, after a break from dance the return to class can put lots of pressure on the body as it has to quickly adjust back to the demands of dance. As a result, an injury in those first few week is not uncommon, but there can be ways to minimise this risk by looking after the body, so you are physically and mentally prepared to return to dance The nature of dance training means that it should be mostly continuous - after a few weeks the muscles begin to lose their power and some aspects of your technique may skip. Despite this, the mind will be in a much better place, as it will be refreshed and ready to tackle more training. To avoid injury the mind must slow down slightly for the body, in order to resume the disciplined regime of full-time training without too much of a challenge. Holidays are time for a break, catching up with family and friends and doing the things that are not possible when you are training. It is also the chance therefore to maintain the fitness and facility you have worked hard on, but with a different intensity. When you return to the studio the body will be rested but will not be in a state of shock when you start to dance again. You might find taking classes in Yoga or Pilates help to keep the body supple and in the correct state. It will help ease your body back into dancing by continuing to be active. Keeping the body moving can be done in a variety of ways, with cross-training at the top of the list. Walking, running, swimming and cycling are also ways to keep your fitness levels up. Light stretching can also be positive, by looking after your body and focusing in any parts that need extra care. We have a range of protective and conditioning dance accessories available that can help minimise any dance-relate injuries. Take a look >>