February 25, 2019 at 2:58 pm
March is National Nutrition Month – which we believe is an important and underrated aspect of the dancer lifestyle. Dancers don’t often discuss what they eat in a day the way other athletes might. Additionally, talking about nutrition can be taboo, given professional dance culture’s traditional emphasis on being tall, lean and thin.
Thankfully, this has begun to change in recent years, but there is still much more to be done when it comes to highlighting the importance of dance in nutrition. Many dancers are at higher risk for micronutrient deficiencies, since many aren’t eating enough for the amount of activity they do. These deficiencies can put dancers at risk, since low levels of micronutrients like vitamin D and calcium can weaken bones, leaving dancers vulnerable to injury. What’s more, ballet dancers are at special risk of developing disordered eating habits, with anorexia nervosa claiming a 16.4% prevalence rate among the ballet community.
So, how can dancers stay healthy, fuel their bodies and avoid developing a problematic relationship with food? Below, we share some practical tips for BU Dancers in honor of National Nutrition Month!
- Calculate your body’s calorie needs. These may be higher than you think, since dancers can burn as many as 500-600 calories in a single 90-minute rehearsal. (Source)
- Eat plenty of complex carbohydrate. Despite what you may have read online, your body needs carbs for energy. If you are an athlete, more than half your plate should comprise carbohydrates – like whole-grain pasta or fruit – at every meal. (Source)
- A vegetarian or vegan diet can be healthy for dancers. Just make sure to pay special attention to macro- and micro-nutrients like protein, calcium and Vitamin D. Some nutrients, like vitamin B12, may require you to take a supplement if you are avoiding all animal products. (Source)
- Know the signs of disordered eating. The dance community’s traditionally strict ideals of the “perfect body” can lead some dancers to develop unhealthy body image and relationships with food. If a friend shows signs of disordered eating, such as strict black-and-white rules about food or deliberately skipping meals to control body weight, encourage them to talk to a health professional to get the help they need to feel better. (Source)
- Emphasize fluid intake. More than 70% of our bodies comprise water. Sweating during dance rehearsals can cause you to lose much of your body’s water supplies. Rehydrate with plenty of water throughout the day, and consider a sports drink like Gatorade to replenish electrolytes while dancing. (Source)
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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Tagged dance, dance nutrition, disordered eating, eating disorders, healthy eating, healthy eating for dancers, macronutrients, micronutrients, National Nutrition Month, nutrition for dancers, sports nutrition, vitamin deficiencies
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February 6, 2019 at 2:58 pm
Welcome back to another exciting semester at BU Dance! A new semester means new dance classes - which for 2019 includes several brand-new specialized workshops in aerial dance.
In these workshops, new and seasoned aerial dancers alike can explore dance-based low aerial sling and bungee. Meanwhile, dancers with at least one semester of aerial dance experience can participate in circus-style high aerial sling.
But what do those words even mean? That's what we're here for! This blog post will give you an introduction to the different kinds of aerial dance techniques you can explore as part of BU Dance's specialized workshops.
Meanwhile, save the date for Monday, February 18th (the President's Day holiday), when all of these incredible workshops are running! Visit bu.edu/fitrec/dance to register for one, two or all three workshops - and we look forward to seeing you then.
Low Aerial Sling
What it is: Aerial sling gets its name from the piece of equipment used to perform the moves. It is a hammock-like structure of fabric that allows the dancer to get his or her entire body inside the sling to perform a variety of poses and drops. For low aerial sling, no prior experience is necessary. High aerial swing is considered more advanced because of the strength and experience it takes to get to those heights.
Why you should try it: Aerial sling is both an excellent workout and a beautiful performance art! If you are a dancer looking to cross-train and broaden your horizons at the same time, aerial sling is the perfect style for you. At low heights, the sling is a great starting points for beginners new to aerial dance. It also helps to build core strength: a necessary skill for dancers of all disciplines!
Photo by Bill Parsons/Maximal Image
Bungee
What it is: Bungee-assisted dance is a category of aerial arts in which dancers are suspended from bungee cords attached to harnesses. This allows them to dance as they are suspended mid-air with the support of the bungee, giving the appearance of flight. It has become popular in the dance and theater worlds, as well as started a fitness craze!
Why you should try it: Who doesn't want to learn how to fly? If you are nervous about dancing at great heights, the support of the bungee and the attached harness may help to steady your nerves. In addition to being a beautiful art form and a tough workout, bungee-assisted dance is also an amazing skill for aspiring professional performers to have. Showing that you have mastered the art of the bungee may be just enough to land you the big part you were hoping for!
Photo by Bill Parsons/Maximal Image
Circus-Style High Aerial Sling
What it is: High aerial sling uses the same piece of equipment as the low aerial sling, only it is performed at much greater heights. Think back on your childhood trips to the circus, and you will most likely understand why it is called "circus-style" aerial sling! Performers in the circus climb high on the slings to dazzle and impress their audiences.
Why you should try it: If you are a seasoned aerial dancer with at least one semester of experience, you may find yourself mastering the basics and wondering what else aerial dance has to offer. Our workshop in circus-style high aerial sling will challenge you to take your aerial dance practice to the next level. You will engage your muscles and your brain as you learn new moves unique to this style of aerial sling.
Photo by Andreas Randow
Visit bu.edu/fitrec/dance to register for 1, 2 or 3 workshops on Monday, February 18th!
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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Tagged aerial dance, aerial dance workshops, aerial intensive, aerialists, BU aerials, bungee, circus style aerial sling, dance, dance workshops, high aerial sling, intensive workshops, low aerial sling
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January 28, 2019 at 5:59 pm
As the first week of classes has already come and gone, it's easy to feel like the semester is flying by. It is important to take some time to make sure you can get the most out of your Spring semester by being productive as possible- here are some of our tips!
- Spend some time writing down your goals for the semester. Whether it be to spend more time with friends or in the library, it is helpful to write out a list of things you want to achieve.
![goal-setting-1[1]](/budance/files/2019/01/goal-setting-11-300x198.jpg)
- Get in the habit of writing down your daily goals. This will help you to stay focused on what needs to be done.
![il_fullxfull.644529629_6dtp[1]](/budance/files/2019/01/il_fullxfull.644529629_6dtp1-200x300.jpg)
- Exercise! Between dance, yoga, Pilates, Zumba, and other types of work outs, there are so many options. Exercise will help you to achieve personal fitness goals, energize you, and lower stress levels! Register for a dance class here: bu.edu/fitrec/dance
- Try turning off your phone when working. It's amazing how much you can get done with fewer distractions.
- Declutter your desk- "mess creates stress!"
- Drink more water. Hydration helps to energize you and keep you focused.
Water bottles
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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January 8, 2019 at 3:30 pm
Winter break always starts off miraculously....but little by little, it loses its luster. By the last week or so, we're bored and just waiting for our chance to get back to dance class.
However, just because it's break doesn't mean you can't use your break productively! Here are some ways you can use your downtime productively, so you can continue to grow as a dancer even when you're away from BU Dance.
Visit Your Old Dance Studio
Let's face it: we love our BU Dance instructors, but we still miss our old studios from high school, too! If you grew up as a dancer, pay your teachers a visit for old time's sake - and if not, find a local studio where you can take class and develop new relationships at home.
Take a Winter Dance Intensive
For those of you who are seriously pursuing dance, whether as a career or a side-hustle, a winter dance intensive might be just the thing for you. These sessions tend to last 2-4 weeks and usually consist of master classes with some of the leading names in dance today.
Improve Your Technique
They may say "you can't teach an old dog new tricks," but here at BU Dance, we happen to disagree! It's never too late to improve upon your technique. Whether at the barre or with a partner, find time to practice over break and you might just find yourself a stronger dancer when you return.
Try a Pilates Class
Pilates is an amazing type of cross-training for dancers - after all, that's what it was first invented for. Visit a local Pilates studio, or take advantage of our promotion to get $10 off your first private lesson here at Fitrec.
Connect with an Old Friend....
If you find yourself missing old friends from dance class, it might be time to send them a text to meet up for coffee and chat. You can compare stories of your different experiences as college dancers and relive the glory days of your time together in high school.
...or Meet Somebody New!
Taking dance classes at a new studio is always a wonderful way to make new friends. Whether on-campus or off-campus, the studio is one of our favorite places to make connections with our fellow friends and dancers.
Above All Else, Relax and Have Fun
It's called a BREAK for a reason, people! So, don't forget to take some time out for a little self-care between dance classes and workout sessions. Because you and your health are worth every second!
How are you spending winter break this year? Comment your answer below!
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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December 25, 2018 at 4:30 pm
Merry Christmas to our BU dancers who celebrate it - and a warm and cozy winter day to those who don't! As 2018 comes to a close, we're beginning to set our dance goals for 2019.
It's important to center ourselves and focus on self-care during this time of year...which is why we're guiding you through the process of setting your New Year's resolutions for 2k19! These ideas are perfect for any dancer looking for a challenge, or simply an opportunity to work a little harder toward their dreams.
Go en Pointe
If you're a dedicated ballerina and you're ready to take the next step, talk to your teacher about taking your training en pointe. It might just be the perfect challenge for the new year!
Do a Full Split
Flexibility doesn't come naturally to, well....most of us really. Thankfully, your flexibility is something you can easily improve upon in 2019!
Start a Cross-Training Program
Dancers need to keep fit, too - in fact, a lack of muscle strength can put dancers at risk of injury. 2019 might be the perfect year to start a new training program to support your dance technique.
Make a New Dance Friend
While improving your technique is always wonderful, solid dance friends are a must! Joining a new dance class or group on campus can help you meet like-minded dancers - and maybe even lifelong friends.
Sign up for a Dance Class....Outside Your Comfort Zone!
BU Dance is home to many unique classes. From tap to pole fitness, aerial silks to salsa, we guarantee there's a new flavor of dance here that you probably haven't tried yet! Register for a class at bu.edu/fitrec/dance - go on, we dare you.
Comment your New Year's resolution for 2019!
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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December 11, 2018 at 3:35 pm
Welcome back, BU dancers - and wishing you a warm and happy holiday season! But before we can get to spreading the holiday cheer and sipping cocoa by the fire, we have to conquer the dreaded beast of finals.
Thankfully, we're here to share a few much-needed study tips to help you ~dance~ through finals (see what we did there?) in a breeze.
Take Regular Breaks
Our personal favorite study tip? Take lots of breaks! Frequent, short breaks help you be more productive than longer, less frequent ones. Use a Pomodoro timer to keep score of your study session. After 50 minutes of work, you've earned a 10 minute break! Rinse and repeat until you know the material like the back of your hand.
Snack on Brain Food
The right snack is not only delicious - it also helps you concentrate! Protein and fiber keep you full, while omega-3s serve as building blocks for your brainpower. Eat a tasty snack combining all of the above, like raw almonds or veggies and hummus, to maximize your studying potential.
Use a Reward System
Positive reinforcement is the best way to learn, according to psychology - so, what better way to study than to reward yourself? Every time you finish a chapter or chunk of notes, give yourself a little treat, like an MnM or five minutes of scrolling through the @bostonufitrec Instagram account! (And liking all of our dance photos, of course.)
Stay Balanced with Self-Care
As you move into finals week, don't forget to take care of yourself. While it can be tempting to hole yourself up in the library (especially with Mugar being open 24 hours during finals!), it's important to stay healthy and sane during this stressful time. For us, self-care means taking time to dance - such as taking one of our end-of-semester dance classes! - and relax with our BFFs at the BU Dance Program!
What's your favorite way to study for finals?
Let us know in the comments or @BUDanceProgram on Twitter!
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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Tagged Boston University, BU dance, college dancers, college study tips, dance, dance classes, finals, study tips
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December 6, 2018 at 5:31 pm
PC: Olivia Moon Photography / halfasianlens
As we approach the end of the semester, students, professors, and faculty alike are rushing through what feels like a million tasks. It is easy to let the stress and grind consume you; however, here at BU Dance, we encourage you to hit pause on the craziness, whether it be studying, grading, or meetings. Here are 4 reasons we love end of semester dance classes!
1. Stress Less
By taking time to get out of the library and dance it up in the studio, end-of-semester dance classes are great for helping you relax and de-stress during finals.
2. Friendship
End-of-semester dance classes are open to all, so be sure to invite your friends so you can all dance, laugh, and have fun together!
3. Learn New Things
With the variety of genres- Afro Fusion, Stretch, Ballet, Cardio-Jazz Funk, and more, and the dance films, it's the perfect opportunity to learn new styles and information.
4. They're Free!
Enough said.
Learn more about our end-of-semester classes here: http://www.bu.edu/fitrec/dance/
We hope to see you there!
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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November 27, 2018 at 3:59 pm
One of BU Dance's most recent additions to our family of classes is Pole Dance Circuit, a fun and fluid way to get in touch with your body and build strength away from the dance floor...literally. If you've been dying to try pole dance, then you're in luck: we're hosting two Pole Samplers on Monday, December 10th! Still not convinced? Check out these five reasons why you'll love pole dance fitness - and when you're done, sign up for the samplers at bu.edu/fitrec/dance. (As for seasoned pole dance veterans, we're hosting a Pole Jam the same day. More info is available on the website!)
Pole Improves Your Flexibility & Fluidity
If you've dreamed of flying high in a perfect split, then taking pole classes will help you get there - in time, with practice, of course!
Pole Is All About Building Confidence
Pole dance might seem scary at first, but it's a great way to gain confidence in your body and its movements.
Pole Will Make You a Master of Movement
Practice makes perfect...and what better way to build up your dance repertoire than practicing something outside your comfort zone?
Pole Builds Muscle & Tones Your Body
You'll be surprised at the amount of upper body strength you need simply to climb up the pole, let alone defy gravity in feats of strength and flexibility.
Pole Is Perfect For Every Kind of Dancer
Our classes are co-ed and open to dancers of all levels, meaning that everyone is welcome at the pole!
To register for Pole Dance Samplers & Jam, visit bu.edu/fitrec/dance.
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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Tagged Boston University, BU dance, college dance programs, college dancers, pole dance, pole fitness
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November 20, 2018 at 3:31 pm
As we approach Thanksgiving, I am taking the opportunity to reflect and consider what I am grateful for this year. It is my second year in college, and I feel as if I am finally finding my place here. I am curious and engaged with my studies, have a great group of friends, and am happily throwing myself into the dance program here at BU. Dance is becoming the cornerstone of my college life, as it is the nexus of academics, social life, and creativity.
Most significant to me in my dance education here is the encouragement to discover and grow as a dancer and a person. In the dance minor, we are required to take a variety of styles, so that we can both deepen and improve upon our training as well as expand our virtuosity.
Last year, I took both the aerial dance and the pole dance samplers here. In these “sample classes,” students learn the basics of the styles. For instance, in the aerial sampler, students in small groups spent the hour and a half class rotating through different apparatus stations, learning the foundations of each type of aerial dance. In the pole sampler, we alternated between practicing strengthening movements on the floor and performing different moves on the poles. Not only were these classes an excellent introduction to the styles of dance- ones completely new to me- helping me grow as a technical dancer, they also contributed to my own personal development. By trying out completely foreign dance styles, launching myself in the air and around a pole, and interacting with new people, I forced myself to confront and conquer my anxieties about risk-taking.
This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for BU Dance allowing me to grow. Whether it be through more exciting sampler classes or in everyday technique classes, I am confident that I will have the opportunities and guidance essential to become the best dancer and person I can be. – Claire-Solene, Class of 2021
If you are interested in trying out an aerial dance or pole dance sampler, click here to learn more: https://myfitrec.bu.edu/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?module=ar&keyword=air1
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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Tagged aerial dance, dance, dance events, dance samplers, pole dance fitness
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November 14, 2018 at 10:21 am
The turkey's been bought, the table's been set - now, all that's left to do is finish classes and CELEBRATE! This Thanksgiving break, whether you're going home or spending it on campus, you've probably got a million wonderful things to give thanks for over the holiday. Here at the BU Dance Program, we know that we are thankful for BU Dance for so many different reasons - and today we're sharing ten of them with you. Here are 10 reasons to be thankful for BU Dance this November - and why we'll be thinking of all our dancers when we're digging into our Turkey Day feast!
1. A BU Dancer is never bored.
With so many different class options, why stay home and do nothing when you could be dancing?
2. Our BU Dancers know their stuff.
Our BU Dancers know what all the things are...and if they don't know something, they're more than eager to learn it!
3. BU Dance has brought us friendships.
Whenever we need something - yes, even a back scratch - our fellow classmates and dancers are never more than a phone call away.
4. We've improved our technique along the way.
Our dancers and instructors push each other to improve - and will cheer you on the whole way there!
5. We love our amazing dance instructors.
We're not regular dance teachers. We're cool dance teachers.
6. BU is home to unique programs, like aerial and pole.
Aerial and pole might be out of some people's comfort zones. Thankfully, you can safely try them right here at BU Dance!
7. BU has so many dance groups on campus.
You're never at a loss for fellow dancers to choreograph with, practice with or simply pass the popcorn with.
8. We love our home in FitRec!
Working out might not be our favorite thing - but boy, do we love taking class in L240 every Thursday night!
9. BU Dance's social media posts give us life.
With blog posts like these, it only makes sense that our Facebook and Twitter are similarly on point.
10. Last but not least...we love BU Dance because of YOU!
That's right: we're thankful for all our BU dancers and their adoring fans this November! Happy Thanksgiving to our BU Dance family.
By budance
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Posted in Uncategorized
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Tagged college dance program, dance program, grateful for, gratitude, thankful for, Thanksgiving
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![goal-setting-1[1]](/budance/files/2019/01/goal-setting-11.jpg)
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