As dance teachers, our bodies are our biggest asset. We give our all, guiding students through the art of dance, inspiring their passion, and helping them grow. But in the midst of it all, we sometimes forget to take care of ourselves. Let’s change that and make self-care a key part of our teaching.
A Look Back at My Journey
Let me take you back to my early dance days to show you how important self-care is. I was thrown into the world of running a dance school, learning every genre and diving headfirst into everything. From the start, I put in long hours—not just teaching, but also studying and working towards qualifications to make sure I could succeed in this demanding field. Leaving full-time education to commit to dance fully only added more pressure. I quickly found myself in a world that demanded a lot from my body. It was a real eye-opener, teaching me how crucial self-care is for staying in the game long-term.
The Impact of Repetition
Injuries can become an unwanted companion for dance teachers. Whether it’s from years in pointe shoes or from partnering students in a ballroom class, our bodies take a lot of strain. Even if you start with a healthy body, repeated movements can still cause problems. When I first started, I knew I had to mix things up, so I taught different styles and added fitness elements like Pilates to my routine. This not only kept me in shape but helped my business grow too. Plus, I made sure to include solo styles to reduce the strain from constant partner work. This approach has kept me injury-free for almost 50 years of full-time teaching.
Small Changes Make a Big Difference
One thing I’ve learned is that making little adjustments can go a long way. Adapt your teaching to protect your body. Maybe that means fewer full-on demos or getting dancers to dance solo for styles like Latin & Ballroom. Small tweaks can make a big impact.
Footwear Matters
Shoes are a game-changer. Those flashy three-inch Latin heels might look great, but when you’re on your feet all day, comfort is key. Choose shoes that support your feet and reduce fatigue so you can focus on your students, not your aching feet. I’ve relied on dance trainers and supportive practice shoes for long teaching days. If they let you pivot easily, they’ll save you from unnecessary strain.
Spotting Problems Early
Looking back on my dance career, I’ve learned the importance of catching issues early. If a certain move starts to bother your hips or knees, adjust how you teach it. Focus on technique, offer alternatives, and give your students more time in the spotlight—it’s a win-win. I also make sure to see a podiatrist every six weeks to keep my feet in good shape.
Top Tips for Dance Teachers’ Self-Care:
- Warm up and Cool Down: Start and finish each class with a good warm-up and cool-down to protect your muscles and joints.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise, strength training, and stretching outside of teaching are crucial to staying strong and injury-free.
- Mind Your Posture: Keep good posture both in and out of the studio.
- Choose Comfortable Shoes: Opt for supportive, comfortable shoes, even if they’re not the most stylish.
- Eat Well: A balanced diet and plenty of water will keep your energy levels up.
- Take Care of Your Health: Get regular check-ups, treat yourself to massages, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Eight hours a night can make all the difference.
- Stay Calm: Add stretching, meditation, or yoga to your routine to stay connected to your body.
- Keep Learning: Stay up to date on teaching methods that focus on safe and effective movement.
Self-Care: The Key to Longevity
If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be this: make self-care a priority from the start. Whether you’re in your 20s or 30s, don’t wait until your body starts to feel the effects of wear and tear.
Fellow dance teachers, taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. Prioritise your health, not just for your own well-being but to set an example for your students. By looking after yourself, you’re ensuring you can continue spreading the joy of dance for many years, making a lasting impact on the world of dance.
