What's the best way to ease back into dancing after a 5-month break / hiatus?

  • Thread starter Thread starter JJ
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J

JJ

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Hi Everyone, Happy New Year!

Speaking of resolutions, mine is to dance (standard) again! I've taken an extended break from dancing for about 5 months now due to personal reasons which prevented me from being able to channel my energy effectively in dance. So instead of scaling back, I decided to stop completely until I had time and capacity to focus.

At the moment, I have time again, but I don't feel in shape to be able to pick up ballroom straight away. I'm reconditioning my body by taking brisk walks and yoga classes. However, aside from being out of shape, I'm also feeling apprehensive about whether I've retained ANY muscle memory during this long break. I thought the time away from dance would help me regroup and be *******ed, but now I'm not feeling either! I'm feeling anxious and nervous that I'll let myself and my teachers down.

Is the best way to go about restarting to just bite the bullet and schedule a lesson regardless of what physical condition or mental state I'm in?

I gladly welcome your thoughts.
 
In my experience, absolutely schedule private lessons and get back into it as much as possible. Took 7 and a half months off, with exception of four lessons in two days 6 months in. Found best way to get back into it when I got back was just to get into studio as much as possible. 2-3 privates per week, all the group lessons I could, and practicing as much as posisble.
 
I echo the sentiment over here.

Meanwhile, do whatever feels helpful as far as working on your body, and things will come together again for you quickly, no doubt!
 
Make sure pro knows that you used to dance and are coming back after a hiatus. That way they can make sure to design lesson plans on getting you back into it, and give you specific exercises/practices to do outisde of lessons.
 
you might go to a social and do some line dancing. That way you can get into moving your body without the pressure of doing so with a partner. If asked just explain and 99% of leads are amazingly accomodating. However, I think you will find very quickly that you don't need to do so (which would be affirming).

You did not mention how far you got into ballroom. Were you in syllabus or doing open?

By the way, I did the same thing but after a much longer break - 2 years. The key thing for me was to find a really good (understanding) pro to work with - I told him exactly what my problem was and within weeks I was back dancing.

Good luck!
 
I agree with what others have posted. Dive right in and start dancing. Also, you may want to put some music on at home and start moving.
 
and do give yourself a bit of a break...things will come back, but the body needs time to acclimate to the movement once again. be gentle with yourself and schedule more solo practice time in the beginning.
 
Just remember to build up your strength and get your muscles and tendons in shape again. I tried to jump in too fast and ended up with problems from strains and stress fractures. Build yourself up slowly and you will enjoy it more without too many injuries. Have fun!!
 
Thanks for all your responses. I'll be sure to start gently. =)

ee, I was/am in syllabus, but my pros liked throwing in open figures.
 
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