When engaging in various types of dance classes and movement, flexibility comes in handy, but it's also crucial for the safety and wellness of an active body. Being more flexible can safeguard your joints and muscles from injury during more rigorous activity. However, it can be difficult to know how to test and strengthen your muscles and joints to gain more flexibility and reach deeper stretches. Here's a helpful list of methods to increase your ability to reach and flex! 

How to Improve Your Flexibility for Dance Classes and Beyond

1. Incorporate Daily Stretching Into Your Routine 

The best way to improve flexibility is to practice daily. Just as you might engage in dance classes multiple times a week, stretching and body movement will create ongoing improvements. You might consider stretching in the morning to begin the day, or right before bed to end it. This routine will awaken and foster strength in the muscles and joints, achieving more flexibility as the days go on. 

2. Try a Yoga Class 

As any athlete or dancer will tell you, active rest days in between games, practices, or dance classes are paramount to the health and rejuvenation of your body. Yoga is a great way to engage the muscles, joints, and limbs while not over-working yourself. You'll also achieve increased flexibility through the various moves and positions that a yoga class requires. 

3. Listen to Your Body 

When it comes to movement, the most important step is listening to your body. Exercising, stretching, and reaching a higher state of flexibility involves being in tune with the make-up of your being. If you're noticing that something hurts, don't push it. If you're feeling confident about trying something new, make sure that the body is aligned with the mind. Pushing yourself too hard to stretch your hips or reach your toes will only pull a muscle or cause a possible injury. When it comes to flexibility, slow and steady wins the race. 

If you or your child is interested in dance classes and increasing their flexibility and movement abilities, trust Showcase Dance Studio in Cudahy, WI. For fifteen years, this studio has offered fun and effective dance classes for all students 3 years old and up, including ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, and acro. Call (414) 803-8228 to connect with an instructor, or visit their website to learn more.