Don't let it consume you.
I’ve been teaching for a long time and most of my students were “beginner” to “intermediate” level.
In each level, there were flexible kids and non-flexible kids. There were strong kids and weak kids. There were coordinated kids and uncoordinated kids…
Do you see what I’m getting at?
Every dancer has something that comes easy to them and something that’s hard.
If you’re not flexible, you might be envious of a dancer who is. And maybe that’s all you see, like you can’t help but compare yourself to them.
If you’re not flexible, you might be frustrated that you aren’t improving your flexibility. Like you’re working really hard and not seeing results.
In either of these scenarios, it’s not your fault.
Just know that flexibility isn’t going to magically make you a better dancer. No matter what your teacher says or what judges say, flexibility isn’t as amazing as they make it seem. Yes, it’s put on a pedestal by so many in the dance world. It makes it seem like every dancer should be flexible.
But, bodies have limits and every body is different.
You have to see past that expectation and look towards what you can do. What can your body do?
Don’t ever force your body to do something. That could be dangerous.
Technique > Flexibility
So your body might be limited in some places. Doesn’t matter.
You know what does?
TECHNIQUE
The simplest and most basic technique like pointed feet, stretched legs, and your use of plie can make you a fantastic dancer. Sprinkle in your love for dance and let the rest of the world fall away.
Easier said than done, I know.
I can hear some of you now. What if your feet don’t point all the way or you have poor turnout??
I’ll be honest, those can break your lines visually. Still, doesn’t matter. What I want you to focus on is engaging your muscles, grounding yourself to the floor, working on your coordination, and presenting confidence.
When you can’t stretch to a straight line, compensate with your strengths like good posture, power, performance, or a good attitude. What’s something amazing that you bring to the table? Be proud of that and show it off!
Then, put focus and intention when working on your technique in class.
Flexibility with Strength
If you want to improve your flexibility even knowing that it isn’t as important as you thought, flexibility cannot just come from stretching.
When you’re stretching one muscle, you’re contracting the opposite muscle.
While one side lengthens, the other shrinks. Gotta think in 3D.
But if you’re not strengthening your muscles, your flexibility means nothing and can be dangerous.
You don’t have to hold stretches for 5 minutes either. Use a dynamic, moving warmup to strengthen and lengthen your muscle fibers. Once warm, you can sit in your stretches for up to 45 seconds each.
Keep adjusting, finding those uncomfortable spots and stretching into those. NEVER stretch into pain.
Muscles also need recovery after stretching so don’t overdo it.
'What can you do with low flexibility?
- Play into your strengths! Whether it’s performance quality, being adaptable, turns, musicality, or having a lot of power… every dancer has a strength or two.
- Use good technique and experiment with making shapes using the mirror. What arm or leg placement looks best to you? Find the shapes and angles that suit you best. Ask a trusted teacher or friend to help you out.
- Find the right amount of power! How hard you push off the ground for a leap might not match your flexibility. Time for trial and error! Find a balance between your power and flexibility.
Don’t let the lack of flexibility take attention away from your strengths.
Know that your body has its limits and you should respect them. Honor your strengths and show ’em off!
You can stretch, but make sure to strengthen at the same time. Don’t push yourself. Stretching should be uncomfortable, not unbearable.
The more you stretch into those uncomfortable spots, the more your body will send water to them and your brain will turn down the pain signals.
Don’t be discouraged!
Flexibility is just ONE part of dance. It isn’t the ONLY part.
