Tip of The Day: The Importance of Flexibility in Dance

Q:  Why is it important for dancers to build flexibility?

Choreographer, Dance Instructor Shannon Thomas

A: Flexibility is an important part of overall health.  Dancing requires a large amount of flexibility in the major muscles groups to create a broader range of motion.  Most dance classes start with a warm up of cardio and stretching to prepare the muscles for movement.  Flexibility is in order to even be able to attempt certain techniques or moves.  It is important that dancers work to achieve overall flexibility in the torso, back, neck, shoulders, legs and feet.  Having a broad range of motion allows dancers to jump high into the air and lift the legs effortlessly as if they were moving in water.