Regardless of the activity you engage in, resuming it after a prolonged break necessitates some kind of preparation to regain momentum. Dance is no exception. Even if you possess a solid dancing foundation, re-entering the dance scene after an extended hiatus demands mental and physical preparation. If you have led a sedentary lifestyle with limited movement during the break, putting in additional effort to familiarize the body and with the movements without risking exhaustion or injury is important.
According to Arunima Gupta, a licensed Zumba instructor and co-founder of The Floor, a dance and fitness studio in Kochi, establishing the mindset to return to the movement is the first step towards returning to dancing.
“For whatever reason, you may have taken a break from dancing; if you have mentally prepared yourself to resume dancing and the routine, your body will follow it. The mental preparation is the first and foremost step,” says Gupta.
Resuming dance gradually after a break
Even though you used to be able to perform lengthy dance pieces with grace and ease before taking a break from dancing, you might find it difficult to return to that level of skill and proficiency when you start dancing again. You might get into trouble if you try to increase the intensity and duration suddenly.
“The most crucial point to keep in mind while returning to dance after a break is to take it slowly,” says Manu Emmanuel George, co-founder of Electro Battles Dance and Fitness Studio, Kochi.
“Ideally, the routine should begin with stretches and warm-up exercises. You can gradually learn the basics of the preferred dance style. Regardless of your style, you should start as a beginner because you are returning after a long break; brushing through the basics helps you to rebuild the foundation and prepare your body to engage in dancing actively,” adds George, a dance teacher in The Choice School, Kochi.
Accommodating varying fitness levels and potential physical changes
You may have gained weight or have not been involved in any physical activity during a prolonged break. This is when you must accommodate your physical changes and varying fitness levels into dancing.
“You don’t need to reduce your weight to dance, but you have to be fit to dance,” says George.
According to experts, the best way to prepare your body for the physical demands of dancing after a break is to work on your cardio, strength, and flexibility.
“By engaging in exercises for improving your cardio, strength, and flexibility, you can make your body fit, which makes the process of returning to dancing easier,” says Gupta.
It is also crucial to incorporate breathing exercises into your routine. When returning to dancing after a long break, your cardiovascular fitness, including lung capacity, may not be up to the mark. Proper breathing exercises can indeed help improve lung capacity and enhance your ability to handle the pressure associated with dancing.
Ensure re-entry with safety
In case you have concerns about your readiness to resume dancing due to an injury or other health trouble, you should speak with a healthcare provider and get advice. It is crucial that you notify your dance instructor of any injuries or concerns, even after receiving professional advice. It will help them train you with the issue in mind.
Overcoming the mental challenges of dancing after the break
After making the major decision to resume dancing after a long break, sometimes you may feel discouraged or frustrated. Particularly when you are having difficulties adapting to the routine, unlike in the past. Here is where belonging to a dance community comes in handy.
“Being a member of communities pushes you to stay motivated and follow your passion rather than giving up when you’re feeling demotivated in your comeback journey,” explains Gupta.
Sometimes, relearning a dance style that you are already familiar with makes the process tedious. “Try mastering diverse styles to keep yourself from getting bored. Discovering new dance styles keeps up your enthusiasm and helps you stay connected to dancing,” says George.
Takeaways
- The primary thing to remember when you are getting back into dancing after a break is to take the process slowly.
- You must focus on cardio, strength, and flexibility to adapt your changing physical state and varied fitness levels into dancing after the break.
- When you resume your dance journey, it is vital to consult with a healthcare specialist and seek advice if you have any concerns regarding an injury or other health issues.
