When we dance and start to get tired, one of the first things we feel is the body giving up. We feel out of control control or uncoordinated. It’s not about how strong we are, it’s a matter of concentration and relying on your technique.

Here are 5 tips on how to OVERCOME Fatigue in Dance and Fitness

1. Concentration is Key.

   We need to maintain a high level of mental concentration, but we also need to allow our body to pull back to about 60-70% capacity. To avoid injury while the body is strained and tired, we need to focus and remember proper technique. It is always better to be safe and execute the steps correctly, than to try to push yourself into a place where injury is inevitable. Concentrate on the steps, the emotions, and the music; but, don’t push your body to give 110%. The steps will not be clean, you will become uncoordinated, and you will get frustrated. When those feelings take over, we lose control.

2. Stay Hydrated.

   You would be shocked how many people don’t drink enough fluids during intense activity. Water with lemon will replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Always have water nearby so you can stop and get the hydration you need, and take a breath to refocus.

3. Take a Break.

   Whether it’s during a long day, or during your whole week- give your body and mind a chance to recover. After centre, before you hit the mat, stop for 15-20 minutes and have a banana or an apple with raw nuts (almonds, cashews, or brazilian nuts) before you get back to it. During the week take a day off, even more if your body needs it. Your body and your mind need a chance to recover and assimilate new information.

4. Nurture your Body.

   Get a massage, go see a physio or an osteopath, spend some time (and money, if need be) on yourself. There are some areas we simply can not reach on our own. These professionals are trained to get the most fatigued spots of the body to release and recover. Plus, if the body is not aligned properly, it will not respond as it should. Chronic fatigue will lead to injury. So, nurture your body- it needs to have a rest to regain full capacity.

5. Get Inspired.

   Do something different, anything other than dance or other physical activity. Go to the museum, go see a movie, read your book, go for a coffee with a friend, get lost in your garden. Find something to work your mind instead of your body. When our mind is active and inspired, our body will respond with more energy and more determination when we return to dancing.

   If you find yourself feeling short of inspiration, remember you can download the Get Ballerina Fit workout. What helps you the most when fatigue sets in? Let me know in the comments below, so we can all learn from each other. Let’s keep dancing!

   
   

Of course I’m here for you, so if you have any question or want to start a conversation, feel free to leave a message below or send me an email to hello@lazydancertips.com :)

Love
Alessia