Dancewear

Staying Warm in the Studio

9:44 AM

I live in North Carolina. It hasn't been this cold in so many years that schools are closing because of the temperature. 11 degrees? In the south? c'mon!! For those of us dancing and teaching, it is essential we keep ourselves warm, especially since auditions and competitions are upon us! Here are some tips for staying warm without wearing tons of bulky clothing.


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1. Wear 2 pairs of tights. I know it sounds ridiculous but it works. Especially if you have sweater tights or legging tights, or fleece lined tights to go over. But even if you don't, just an extra pair of tights can really give you a lot of warmth!


2. Wear Leather shoes instead of canvas. Leather doesn't breathe as well... which means it'll hold the heat in your slippers better. Make sure you put some shoe dogs in when you're done though, otherwise you'll end up with seriously nasty shoes!

You might like - Keep your shoes from smelling!

3. Wear Appropriate Warm-ups. Jackets, sweat pants, and big puffy coats are not appropriate dance warmups. If you're allowed to wear warm-up gear in the studio, make sure it's something that still allows for the teacher to correct your placement.

Snug leg warmers, wrap sweaters or tightly-fitting long-sleeved shirts, knit dance shorts, and shoe covers are all great options.

Photo credit: Yellow Sky Photography on Visual hunt / CC BY-SA
Photo credit: Yellow Sky Photography on Visual hunt / CC BY-SA


Lot's of stuff hanging off of you? not so much.

These are examples of warm-ups not appropriate for class (professionals only). As you can see, the backs and ribs are hidden, they're wearing tshirts and sweaters, and pants that hide the ankles. It is acceptable for professional dancers to wear things like this, as they are confident and trained in their technique; but students should follow the examples given above.

Photo by KCBalletMedia on Visualhunt / CC BY


Photo by KCBalletMedia on Visualhunt.com / CC BY


Photo by quinn.anya on Visual hunt / CC BY-SA

4. Keep Moving. When a teacher is giving a correction or combination, now is your chance to do it full out and practice the correction rather than standing and watching, or marking or gesturing with the hands. It will require more effort and energy to dance everything "full-out," but if you make it a point to keep moving, you will get warm--and stay warm!

Good luck and stay warm! And keep your eyes open for my collection of recommended warmups!

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