Did you know that dance training shows proven results in athletes who also are involved in other sports? Soccer players, runners, gymnasts, figure skaters, hockey players, skiers and even football players have experienced benefits from incorporating consistent dance training into their athletic schedule. Here are five ways dance can enhance the way you play, and enjoy other sports!
Increased Agility: All forms of dance require control. To land softly and with control from jumps, turn and stop quickly, change direction of travel, then incorporate all of these movements together. For example, soccer players dribbling the ball down the field must make rapid turns, change direction quickly, jump to make a header and kick the ball with power and control. Dance training can improve these abilities greatly – thus improving your game.
Balance: Track athletes with dance training have shown greater body control while running and have steadier landings during events that require jumps and landings. Increasing balance is also tied to injury prevention in decreasing falls during sports. Jazz, ballet and even hip-hop dance training are great for increased balance.
Endurance: Being able to sustain high levels of cardio vascular and strength activity is important in every sport. Consistent dance training can increase the level of endurance in athletes through the extreme work out muscles receive during dance conditioning exercises. These exercises also incorporate cardio vascular movements to sustain a healthy heart rate. Jumps, leaps, multiple turns and even stylized “jazz walks” assist in endurance training.
Flexibility: Athletes who run a lot during their sport tend to experience increased muscle tightness. The in- depth stretching that dancers complete during each class allow muscles to become less prone to pulls and strains, and also allows for more flexibility for the athlete.
Year-Round Training: Most sports are seasonal – which means training and conditioning is typically seasonal as well. Continuous training can be an excellent way to keep good agility, balance, endurance and flexibility during the off-season and be in better shape when the season starts again!
All forms of dance have the potential to enhance any sport. We would love to help you select the class that will be a perfect fit for your family schedule, and sports training goals. We have classes for all ages and abilities. Check out our state-of-the-art facilities today, and schedule your studio tour and one-on-one meeting with Ms. Teffany!