Dance Jazz Yoga

Dance classes are an essential workout for the body & soul at any age

If you have ever taken a dance class before, you can fully appreciate the positive aspects you received from it! It can be a serious work out and a great way to stay in shape! Most people opt for the gym, yoga, or other activities to fill their workout regime, but dance classes are a great option as well! If you've ever taken an adult Ballet or Hip Hop class, you know that not only are you using and strengthening your core muscles and increasing flexibility, you are also having fun and probably even building your own confidence! Let's face it, the number one reason adults won't take dance classes are the multiple mirrors that surround the rooms- or "Mirror Syndrome" if you will! Getting over that fear, and joining a class with other people (that most likely have the same worries and fears as you) can really help boost your confidence, while helping you stay in shape and gain some coordination too!

Even if Hip Hop isn't for you, there are lots of other dance classes to join: Ballet, Jazz and Tap are examples. Taking weekly classes is not only good for your body; it's great for your mind as well. Learning new routines and remembering sequences of steps really challenges you to use your memory. You'll find yourself able to pick up dance routines more easily each week. Before you know it, you'll be able to pick up a routine quickly and will be begging for the next count of 8! Taking continued lessons is great for your muscles, but also great practice for your memory.

It's never too late to start!  The biggest worry about starting dance (besides the mirrors of course) is feeling too old to take a class.  Many people find that the initial fear is overcome by trying it out and realizing anyone can dance.  In fact, adults take ballet to strengthen specific muscles after injuries.  You can always tell your teacher your reason for taking the class so that they can best fulfill your needs - whether it be weight loss, injury recovery, or just fun!  Dance is an artistic experience not only for your body, but also for your mind.

Santa Monica dance classes are available to help you improve your mind and body at Santa Monica School of Dance and Music.

About the Author

Daniela Somma is the Dance Director at Santa Monica School of Dance and Music.  Daniela has been teaching dance classes in Santa Monica and the South Bay for over 8 years.  Daniela has been studying dance since the age of 6.

How to regain flexibility to be a contortionist?

I started dancing (Rhythmic Gymnastics, Classical Jazz and modern Jazz) when I was about 4 and stopped when I was 11 to do surfing and yoga and I've lost most of my flexibility. But I would love to become a contortionist. I'm 14, is it too late to get my flexibility back?
What stretches should I do and how often?

Stretch and stretch and stretch lol. 14 is still young.

Jazz Dance : Jazz Dance Steps List

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