Summer vacation is the perfect time for dancers to recharge, cross-train, and prepare for the next dance season. At Joanne Langione Dance Center, we understand the importance of using this time wisely to ensure you’re at your best when classes resume. Here are five ways to make the most out of your summer break:
1. Diversify your training
While it’s essential to take a break from your regular dance routine, cross-training can keep you in shape and even enhance your skills. Consider incorporating activities like yoga, Pilates, or a sport like swimming to target muscles not usually focused on in your dance training. These exercises can improve your flexibility, strength, and endurance, contributing to your overall dance performance. Yoga and Pilates, in particular, are excellent for building core strength and stability, which are crucial for dancers.
A great option for this kind of training is JLDC’s newest program, theDANCELAB Intensive. This premier summer program was designed exclusively for intermediate/advanced dancers to focus on strength and conditioning over the summer months. Students will rotate through a variety of Lab exercises specifically tailored to enhance flexibility, turn stability, leap height and extension, correct body alignment, core strength and foot stretching skills.
This unique opportunity in a small class environment promises to elevate dance skills in a comprehensive and immersive training experience.
2. Focus on recovery and self-care
After a busy dance season, your body needs time to heal and recover. Use the summer break to focus on self-care practices that you might not have time for during the school year. Foam rolling and stretching sessions can help alleviate muscle tension and prevent injuries. Additionally, make sure to get plenty of sleep and maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your body’s recovery process.
3. Set new goals and create a plan
Summer break is an excellent time to reflect on your progress and set new goals for the upcoming dance season. Take some time to think about what you want to achieve, whether it’s mastering a new technique, improving your flexibility, or feeling more confident on stage. Once you have your goals in mind, create a plan to achieve them. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and set a timeline to keep yourself on track.
4. Stay connected with dance
Even though you’re on break, it’s important to stay connected with the dance community. Attend summer intensives, workshops, or dance camps to continue learning and stay inspired. These programs often feature guest instructors and offer a variety of classes that can expose you to new styles and techniques. Additionally, watching dance performances, either live or online, can keep you motivated and provide new ideas for your own dancing.
One of the ways the students at Joanne Langione Dance Center stay connected with dance is Summerdance. Each summer, JLDC comes alive with dance, art, music, and performance. There are many programs to choose from during Summerdance as well!
What is the Summerdance program?
The Summerdance half day program for dancers ages 3-6 years is designed to develop coordination, rhythm, and a love for music and movement. It also provides an opportunity to learn to dance in an informal setting with emphasis on creativity, fun and the joy of movement. Dancers have the chance to participate in arts and crafts and outdoor games daily in the covered backyard classroom located at 38 Border St.
Full day Summerdance is a week-long performance-based program for beginner/intermediate students ages 7-10 years and culminates in a fully staged musical showcase in JLDC’s black-box style Studio 4 Dance Theater. Following a daily class schedule of ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop and musical theater students feel nurtured and challenged. Learning choreography from JLDC and guest faculty as well as creating their own, students work together on movement, set and production design to build their skills as performers and artists.
The Junior Apprentice program for dancers ages 11-14 years provides unique and exciting opportunities to be classroom leaders. Apprentices participate in the full day program with the additional benefit of demonstrating in the classroom, choreographing, and working closely with JLDC faculty.
Another great option for staying connected with dance at JLDC is Un.Convention Boston. Un.Convention Boston is a unique dance workshop that delivers the best aspects of a dance convention in a private studio setting. During this four-day intensive, dancers will take classes in hip hop, tap, contemporary, jazz, ballet, improv, musical theater, and more.
Un.Convention Boston offers an unparalleled experience that features small classes, individualized instruction, intimate performances and many opportunities to work one-on-one with leading dancers in the field. Un.Convention Summer 2024 features guest teachers Sophia Lucia, Jeff Lapes, Julia Dickey, Peter Sabasino, Justine Picarello and more!
5. Enjoy some well-deserved rest during summer break
While it’s important to stay active, don’t forget to take some time to relax and enjoy your summer break. Spend time with friends and family, explore new hobbies, and simply take a break from your usual routine. Rest and relaxation are just as important as training, as they help rejuvenate your mind and body. Returning to dance after a well-balanced summer will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the new season with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
At Joanne Langione Dance Center, we encourage our dancers to use their summer wisely, balancing rest and recovery with opportunities for growth and learning. By following these tips, you’ll return to the studio feeling rejuvenated and prepared to make the most out of the upcoming dance season. JLDC’s 2024-2025 season begins Sunday, September 15th!
Happy dancing!
