Moving into the chilly and dark time of year here in the northern hemisphere, I like to get cozy and comfy, and also to bring some wonderful warmth from the inside out with yummy dance and movement warm-up exercises.
As I age, it becomes more and more important to properly prepare for dancing and teaching, and it takes a little time and loving care to find ease and range of movement, as well as manage pain and stiffness.
At any age, it is critical to properly warm up before we undertake larger movements and stretches in order to prevent injury.
In this podcast and in the accompanying blog on ablythecoach.com (which will also include all of the links to videos and articles mentioned here!), I'll start with a couple of precautions, and then describe a healthy approach to warming up by warming bigger to smaller muscle groups, gradually building range of motion to promote the flow of synovial fluid, breathing and circulation, specifically targeting muscles for the type of movement we will be performing, and focusing our concentration.
- What’s your favorite way to warm up your body and get going for dance and other activities?
- For what sort of choreography or athletic pursuit are you preparing your body?
- What are your current dancing/fitness/athletic goals?
- What movements or practices just plain make you feel good?
I hope you luxuriate in all of these wonderful warm-ups that are appropriate for you! Please tell me about your experience and personal challenges by email or a DM on social media, @ablythecoach on FB & IG.
Blythe Stephens, MFA
A Blythe Coach: ablythecoach.com
move through life with balance, grace, & power
DISCLAIMER: A Blythe Coach recommends that you consult your physician regarding the applicability of any recommendations and follow all safety instructions before beginning any exercise program. When participating in any exercise or exercise program, there is the possibility of physical injury. If you engage in this exercise or exercise program, you agree that you do so at your own risk, are voluntarily participating in these activities, assume all risk of injury to yourself.