Wow. Just... wow. So the usual place where I dance is closed for holiday break, and being that I have a callback just after break, I've been taking various open classes at nearby studios. Today, it was my second time at this really amazing studio. I was taking the Adv. Beg. Ballet class, taught by one of the most incredible teachers I have ever had. I wish I could take her class 24/7. It was difficult, fun, challenging, vigorous, and I never wanted it to end. The teacher was strict but fun at the same time, and I felt so many muscles working that weren't always worked in other classes.
When the class ended, I started to leave and say goodbye. I saw a lot of people filing in for her next class, a pointe class. I asked her what level, and she said it was open level. Then she asked me to take it! But I did not have pointe shoes or money for another class. She said it was no matter, I could take it for free on demi pointe. This made me super happy because I felt accepted and like maybe she saw potential or something, I don't know. So anyway, now I will be going back there every Saturday for her pointe class. I will probably still take pointe at my other studio, however I don't know if my technique teacher knows I take pointe and she might not want me to, which I certainly hope isn't the case. In the past she hadn't, even when all my other teachers did. Oh well, that's a whole other story.
Anyway, just checking in to say hey!
Do you have one teacher/class you just love?
Do you have one you hate?
Don't be afraid to share the juicy deets lol!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
It's Snowing!!
Just a quick post today, I've been uber busy preparing for my callback and of course with all the holiday cheer!
I just wanted to say, Happy Holidays! I'm so thrilled it's snowing! There's like at least a foot of snow! :D Last night my friend and I took her dog for a romp in the snow, it was so fun!
Also, one of my Christmas presents was a subscription to DANCE magazine (yay!), and I got one featuring Misty Copeland, which was AWESOME 'cause she's been my idol ever since Rebecca from Plies to Pirouettes mentioned her in her Late Blooming Legends Week article! (I'm a late starter too).
You can read the article here.
Also, I saw about 30 different summer intnsive ads that I was drawn to! Now I am auditioning every single weekend in January! And I think most in February as well.
I just wanted to say, Happy Holidays! I'm so thrilled it's snowing! There's like at least a foot of snow! :D Last night my friend and I took her dog for a romp in the snow, it was so fun!
Also, one of my Christmas presents was a subscription to DANCE magazine (yay!), and I got one featuring Misty Copeland, which was AWESOME 'cause she's been my idol ever since Rebecca from Plies to Pirouettes mentioned her in her Late Blooming Legends Week article! (I'm a late starter too).
You can read the article here.
Also, I saw about 30 different summer intnsive ads that I was drawn to! Now I am auditioning every single weekend in January! And I think most in February as well.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
The Weekly One: Sansha Fleece Warm-up Overall
The Problem: Cold muscles, scratchy fabric, too many seperate warm-ups. Legwarmers are typically around $20, plus shorts which are around $15, plus and overwrap sweater, that's another $20-30. Not only does it cost a lot to keep everything warm, but all that takes up a lot of room in your bag! And, these can often come in scratchy, itchy fabrics.
The Solution: Sansha's Warm-up Fleece Sac is a wonderfully soft, inexpesive, all-in-one way to keep those muscles warm! This is absolutely one of my favorite finds! It's also a perfect gift for any dancer because the sizing and style doesn't need to be as specific as shoes or leotards, plus its actually useful!
The Solution: Sansha's Warm-up Fleece Sac is a wonderfully soft, inexpesive, all-in-one way to keep those muscles warm! This is absolutely one of my favorite finds! It's also a perfect gift for any dancer because the sizing and style doesn't need to be as specific as shoes or leotards, plus its actually useful!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
1st Pointe Class!!
Hey guys! SO, guess what?!?!?! My pointe teacher told me to try it sine I had my shoes with me, and I did! A whole hour en pointe! This is a lot for a first time pointe-goer, but it was fun, and the teacher deemed it safe so I can't complain! My feet are certainly tired, but not as dead as I'd expected.
I don't think I did very well especially compared to the others who'd been en pointe for months, and on the jumps en pointe, but I'm working on it. It was also hard because I guess my shoes just weren't right. My teacher said the shoes were way too wide for my feet (they were, as my feet are fairly narrow/normal and the guy had given me a 5X). She also said I needed a Medium shank, as I broke the Soft in just one class! (I don't think the hand-breaking helped).
So this brings me to my final questions...
Do you have any specific pointe shoes brands that you know areof good price and quality (preferably not over $90)?
Any advice on fitting pointe shoes?
Do you remember what brand your first pair were?
I don't think I did very well especially compared to the others who'd been en pointe for months, and on the jumps en pointe, but I'm working on it. It was also hard because I guess my shoes just weren't right. My teacher said the shoes were way too wide for my feet (they were, as my feet are fairly narrow/normal and the guy had given me a 5X). She also said I needed a Medium shank, as I broke the Soft in just one class! (I don't think the hand-breaking helped).
So this brings me to my final questions...
Do you have any specific pointe shoes brands that you know areof good price and quality (preferably not over $90)?
Any advice on fitting pointe shoes?
Do you remember what brand your first pair were?
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
I got a callback!!! :D
I'm so excited you guys! Last night, something magical came in the mail!
My top school that I auditioned for sent me a callback letter! I am so excited! I am thrilled and relieved, but I know it's only half over, and I have more work to do. Honestly I didn't expect to get one, I thought I'd done horribly, but I guess life can surpise you!
I'll keep you posted and tell you all the details soon!
Bye <3
Have you ever had a major audition?
What was it like?
How did you take the good/bad news?
What advice would you give?
My top school that I auditioned for sent me a callback letter! I am so excited! I am thrilled and relieved, but I know it's only half over, and I have more work to do. Honestly I didn't expect to get one, I thought I'd done horribly, but I guess life can surpise you!
I'll keep you posted and tell you all the details soon!
Bye <3
Have you ever had a major audition?
What was it like?
How did you take the good/bad news?
What advice would you give?
Semi-Sad Pointe News
OK, well it's not that sad but unfortunately I wont be taking pointe tomorrow. My pointe teacher told me even though I was ready I had to ask my technique teacher to make sure (who wants the whole level to start at the same time) and since she is away this week, and we have a break for the next 2 weeks, that is not possible. So, I guess until then I can't take pointe here.
However, I have an audition for the SAB Summer Intensive in but a month (talk more about this when it comes closer) and I need to be ready, as the audition takes place en pointe.
I have decided, since my pointe teacher says I'm ready, even though I can't yet take classes there, I am going to take open classes at another nearby studio. Now, I know this isn't advised, and normally I would just be patient and wait till we come back from break, but given the circumstances, I have come to my concensus.
What do you think?
This isn't a bad decision, is it?
However, I have an audition for the SAB Summer Intensive in but a month (talk more about this when it comes closer) and I need to be ready, as the audition takes place en pointe.
I have decided, since my pointe teacher says I'm ready, even though I can't yet take classes there, I am going to take open classes at another nearby studio. Now, I know this isn't advised, and normally I would just be patient and wait till we come back from break, but given the circumstances, I have come to my concensus.
What do you think?
This isn't a bad decision, is it?
Sunday, December 12, 2010
The Weekly One: Bloch ElastoRib
The Problem: Many dancers, especially those en pointe, suffer from strained ankles/tendons or tendonitis. This often happens because the ribbons restrict the ankles and doesn't allow for fluid movement.
The Solution: Bloch Elastorib Ribbon is the perfect solution, because it connects elastic and ribbon so that there is less pressure on the Achilles tendon and helps prevent injury. I would recommend this over Bunheads' similar product Flexers, because the Bloch elastic is less easy to see.
The Bloch Elastorib Ribbon
...versus the Bunheads version (as you can see the elastic is thinner than the ribbon, making it stand out more, as opposed to blend in with the ribbon.
The Solution: Bloch Elastorib Ribbon is the perfect solution, because it connects elastic and ribbon so that there is less pressure on the Achilles tendon and helps prevent injury. I would recommend this over Bunheads' similar product Flexers, because the Bloch elastic is less easy to see.
The Bloch Elastorib Ribbon
...versus the Bunheads version (as you can see the elastic is thinner than the ribbon, making it stand out more, as opposed to blend in with the ribbon.
Soon to be starting: The Weekly One
I decided, starting today, I will be posting something each week called "The Weekly One". Each week, I will find a dance product that exceeds others or fixes a common problem that us dancers come across and share it with you. Enjoy, and keep your eyes peeled for the first Weekly One which I'll be posting today!
HipHop for a Ballerina
My friends had been wanting to go with me to a hiphop class for a while, so I finally said yes and we found a studio where you could take open classes. Let me tell you, it was crazy different from ballet! None of the steps had names, the teacher would just demonstrate an 8-count of any combo and we'd do it! The class proceeded like this the entire time until we had a full routine! It was pretty cool,and so different! A lot of times, theteacher would just say, "make up your own step here," or "do whichever arms you like!" which was fun.
However, as fun as it was, I am still a bunny bunhead :P.
We also did a LOT of crunches, which is why my abdominals are so sore today :(. It burned! But in a good way :P
Plus, of course, lots of stretching!
Do you do hip hop?
Have you ever taken a class?
If you haven't, do you want to?
What's your favorite style of dance?
However, as fun as it was, I am still a bunny bunhead :P.
We also did a LOT of crunches, which is why my abdominals are so sore today :(. It burned! But in a good way :P
Plus, of course, lots of stretching!
Do you do hip hop?
Have you ever taken a class?
If you haven't, do you want to?
What's your favorite style of dance?
Pointe Shoes!!
Let me just say, I cannot WAIT until Thursday!! I am so scared, yet so excited. My teacher told me I could go en pointe. (Only at the barre for now, to keep it slow & safe). So today, I am here to talk about my very first toe shoes.
So, about 2 months ago I was told I could go en pointe by one teacher, but another said not yet (as you know from my last post). But before the other said not yet, I bought the pointe shoes thinking I would need them. Well, I had to stash them for while :'( but now they are ready for use again!
I have Grishko 2007s. My friend told me where the Grishko store was and said they were great, so I decided to check it out. I went there, and a nice man came to greet me and told me he'd be fitting my pointe shoes today. He studied my feet for a long time. Then, he went into a little cubby whole whith tons of shoes. He came out with shoe after shoe, none of them fitting quite right. Then, he went in one last time, and came out with the perfect pair. The heel hugged, but didn't squeeze, my foot, my toes were pleasantly hugged as well, but not squashed or pressed. When fitting the box: you shouldn't be able to move your toes at all but they shouldn't overlap or hurt. There was even a little barre in the room, for me to test them out. He had me releves and they were so comfy! That's right, the pointe shoes were COMFY! I was shocked and thrilled. Everyone had told me they were the most excruciatingly painful things, but they really weren't! (Let's see what I say after my first pointe class!:P) In the end I had a medium vamp, length 6, width 5X, and a soft shank.
Grishko 2007s
I also got toe pads, of course. Just simple, thin, Ouch Pouch Jrs. They seemed to do the trick. I found that my feet werent able to breathe in the pure rubber/gelly ones. I prefer Ouch Pouches because they are a tiny bit soft/squishy like the rubber ones, but are more breathable like cloth. Plain cloth isn't quite enough yet for me.
The Ouch Pouch Jr.
What brand were your first pointe shoes?
If you don't have them yet, what brand do you think you'd like?
Any comments/advice about pointe is welcome!!!
So, about 2 months ago I was told I could go en pointe by one teacher, but another said not yet (as you know from my last post). But before the other said not yet, I bought the pointe shoes thinking I would need them. Well, I had to stash them for while :'( but now they are ready for use again!
I have Grishko 2007s. My friend told me where the Grishko store was and said they were great, so I decided to check it out. I went there, and a nice man came to greet me and told me he'd be fitting my pointe shoes today. He studied my feet for a long time. Then, he went into a little cubby whole whith tons of shoes. He came out with shoe after shoe, none of them fitting quite right. Then, he went in one last time, and came out with the perfect pair. The heel hugged, but didn't squeeze, my foot, my toes were pleasantly hugged as well, but not squashed or pressed. When fitting the box: you shouldn't be able to move your toes at all but they shouldn't overlap or hurt. There was even a little barre in the room, for me to test them out. He had me releves and they were so comfy! That's right, the pointe shoes were COMFY! I was shocked and thrilled. Everyone had told me they were the most excruciatingly painful things, but they really weren't! (Let's see what I say after my first pointe class!:P) In the end I had a medium vamp, length 6, width 5X, and a soft shank.
Grishko 2007s
I also got toe pads, of course. Just simple, thin, Ouch Pouch Jrs. They seemed to do the trick. I found that my feet werent able to breathe in the pure rubber/gelly ones. I prefer Ouch Pouches because they are a tiny bit soft/squishy like the rubber ones, but are more breathable like cloth. Plain cloth isn't quite enough yet for me.
The Ouch Pouch Jr.
What brand were your first pointe shoes?
If you don't have them yet, what brand do you think you'd like?
Any comments/advice about pointe is welcome!!!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Back to Blogging!!!!
So I sit here in my chair, at oh, around 6-something in the morning. I am ready for school, soon to be leaving. But I had to write. It's so hard to find time now, but I believe finding time may be slightly easier now that I have my own computer. SO much has happened since my last blog! And I want to share it with you! (Even if I have to finish this later).
There are many aspects of my current dance life that I am going to tell you about.
AUDITIONS
So far, I've had 4 auditions in the past 2 months. What have I been auditioning for? Well, I have been auditioning for dance schools. No, not part-time places where I can take classes. Full-on dance schools. (They are mostly public, they also do academics). I am super excited! I have one more in January! I am also thinking of auditioning for the School of American Ballet in September, but that’s a whole other story and a long way away. Plus, auditions for summer intensives are coming up in February!!
CLASSES
I am currently at the school I said I’d be auditioning for. It wasn’t a real “audition” because it was more of a placement. I got placed in level 3. (There are Foundations A, Foundations B, Level 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Jr. Trainee and Trainee). I am OK with my level, considering I started ballet so late. I used to take ballet 3 times per week, jazz once, and pointe once (I’ll go into this in more detail). Now, I take ballet 6 days a week! It’s awesome! I like the place I’m at, but I am auditioning for another one just to see how I’d be placed.
POINTE
So, at my old studio I was told I would be doing pointe work (at least at the barre) in September. But by the time September rolled around, I was at a new, very strict studio. They told me I should do pre-pointe instead. So I’ve been doing that for a couple months. Then, today, something amazing happened. Something that made me cry tears of joy. I asked my pointe (who at the time had been pre-pointe, which is where you do it in soft slippers on demi-pointe)teacher, who had been telling me I should do pointe, if I should bring my shoes next week. The reason I hadn't brought them before becase the director wouldn't let me. But today, my pointe teacher said that she said I (and the people in my level who did pre-pointe) could go on, but only at the barre. I'm PSYCHED!!!!! I can't believe it. Pointe! I am in awe. This time next week, I shall come home, removing my pointe shoes, with aching feet, and a glorious happy heart. This is a pic of me in my new pointe shoes:
Well, that's all for now, butI promise I'll be back this weekend! Can't wait to hear from you guys!!
There are many aspects of my current dance life that I am going to tell you about.
AUDITIONS
So far, I've had 4 auditions in the past 2 months. What have I been auditioning for? Well, I have been auditioning for dance schools. No, not part-time places where I can take classes. Full-on dance schools. (They are mostly public, they also do academics). I am super excited! I have one more in January! I am also thinking of auditioning for the School of American Ballet in September, but that’s a whole other story and a long way away. Plus, auditions for summer intensives are coming up in February!!
CLASSES
I am currently at the school I said I’d be auditioning for. It wasn’t a real “audition” because it was more of a placement. I got placed in level 3. (There are Foundations A, Foundations B, Level 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Jr. Trainee and Trainee). I am OK with my level, considering I started ballet so late. I used to take ballet 3 times per week, jazz once, and pointe once (I’ll go into this in more detail). Now, I take ballet 6 days a week! It’s awesome! I like the place I’m at, but I am auditioning for another one just to see how I’d be placed.
POINTE
So, at my old studio I was told I would be doing pointe work (at least at the barre) in September. But by the time September rolled around, I was at a new, very strict studio. They told me I should do pre-pointe instead. So I’ve been doing that for a couple months. Then, today, something amazing happened. Something that made me cry tears of joy. I asked my pointe (who at the time had been pre-pointe, which is where you do it in soft slippers on demi-pointe)teacher, who had been telling me I should do pointe, if I should bring my shoes next week. The reason I hadn't brought them before becase the director wouldn't let me. But today, my pointe teacher said that she said I (and the people in my level who did pre-pointe) could go on, but only at the barre. I'm PSYCHED!!!!! I can't believe it. Pointe! I am in awe. This time next week, I shall come home, removing my pointe shoes, with aching feet, and a glorious happy heart. This is a pic of me in my new pointe shoes:
Well, that's all for now, butI promise I'll be back this weekend! Can't wait to hear from you guys!!
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Getting ready for Fall
OK so before I post let me just say I'm so sorry I've been so slow with posting!! This will explain it. Also, I'm having issues with loading images again. It just isn't working! Hopefully you'll still like the post :)
Fall means a lot of things to your average person. Crunchy leaves beneath your feet, school, work, and just generally getting back into the swing of things.
But for us dancers, it means loads more!! It means new rehearsals, new classes, maybe a new level if you're in a graded training program, etc etc. This can add stress, but it also adds excitement. For me, and probably many others, it means AUDITIONS!!!! AHH!!!!
Do you remember my very first post, where I said I'd be auditioning to get into the Graded Program at this really prestigious school waaaaay in the future??!? WELL, that's now just one week away!!!! AHHH!!! In fact, less than a week because it's next Saturday. I've cramming in as many classes as possible so as t prepare. I'm really worried these people will be more advanced than me. I've only been doing it for about a year! How can I compete?? I need something to boost my confidence :/
So here's what to do to prepare for an audition:
~ Take as many classes as you can beforehand. Knowledge is power!
~ Make sure to keep stretching. You have enough to worry about without worrying about flexibility!
~ Know what you're auditioning for. Try and be as prepared as possible. Less surprises = Less stress.
So yeah, the audition stuff (and the fact that school starts in just a few days) has kept me suuuuuper busy and it's been difficult to get a moment to post. Plus, my laptop broke so I either have to use the computer at the library, like now, or my parents' when they let me.
Alrighty!
<3 Besos! <3
Fall means a lot of things to your average person. Crunchy leaves beneath your feet, school, work, and just generally getting back into the swing of things.
But for us dancers, it means loads more!! It means new rehearsals, new classes, maybe a new level if you're in a graded training program, etc etc. This can add stress, but it also adds excitement. For me, and probably many others, it means AUDITIONS!!!! AHH!!!!
Do you remember my very first post, where I said I'd be auditioning to get into the Graded Program at this really prestigious school waaaaay in the future??!? WELL, that's now just one week away!!!! AHHH!!! In fact, less than a week because it's next Saturday. I've cramming in as many classes as possible so as t prepare. I'm really worried these people will be more advanced than me. I've only been doing it for about a year! How can I compete?? I need something to boost my confidence :/
So here's what to do to prepare for an audition:
~ Take as many classes as you can beforehand. Knowledge is power!
~ Make sure to keep stretching. You have enough to worry about without worrying about flexibility!
~ Know what you're auditioning for. Try and be as prepared as possible. Less surprises = Less stress.
So yeah, the audition stuff (and the fact that school starts in just a few days) has kept me suuuuuper busy and it's been difficult to get a moment to post. Plus, my laptop broke so I either have to use the computer at the library, like now, or my parents' when they let me.
Alrighty!
<3 Besos! <3
Monday, August 16, 2010
I WANT A BUNNY!!!!!!!!!!!
*Deep breaths, deep breaths*.
So the other day, I was watching Michelle Phan (yes, the make-up lady on YouTube) and in the midst of her video, out popped her bunny. He was so freaking cute I just had to pause the video and admire the cuteness...
Before I knew it was pretty much bunny obsessed, having read about 3 rabbit manuals and stared at 50 billion pics on Google Images :P
Now, I reeeeally want a bunny. Like, so bad it hurts. Something about their adorable, fuzzy faces and oversized ears just makes my heart all fuzzy:)
Unfortunately though, to my dismay, you would more likely see pigs fly than my parents allow a rabbit. :( I wish there were some way to change that, anyone know how?
Okily dokily neighborino! (If you watch the Simpsons, you know that's a direct Ned Flanders quote) Hope you enjoyed a really random post!
(These are called Arctic Boxing Hares. What could be cuter?)
Do you have a bunny?
What's your favorite animal?
Any tips on how to persuade unwilling parents to get a rabbit ;)?
So the other day, I was watching Michelle Phan (yes, the make-up lady on YouTube) and in the midst of her video, out popped her bunny. He was so freaking cute I just had to pause the video and admire the cuteness...
Before I knew it was pretty much bunny obsessed, having read about 3 rabbit manuals and stared at 50 billion pics on Google Images :P
Now, I reeeeally want a bunny. Like, so bad it hurts. Something about their adorable, fuzzy faces and oversized ears just makes my heart all fuzzy:)
Unfortunately though, to my dismay, you would more likely see pigs fly than my parents allow a rabbit. :( I wish there were some way to change that, anyone know how?
Okily dokily neighborino! (If you watch the Simpsons, you know that's a direct Ned Flanders quote) Hope you enjoyed a really random post!
(These are called Arctic Boxing Hares. What could be cuter?)
Do you have a bunny?
What's your favorite animal?
Any tips on how to persuade unwilling parents to get a rabbit ;)?
Thursday, August 12, 2010
I need to post!
I feel really bad I haven't been posting much lately, I've just been uuuuuuber busy and I'm working on some big posts that are gonna take some time ;).
Hope to talk to y'all soon!
(I also had a really adorable pic of a cat saying it was sorry I was gonna put here, but again the pictures aren't working!!:()
Hope to talk to y'all soon!
(I also had a really adorable pic of a cat saying it was sorry I was gonna put here, but again the pictures aren't working!!:()
Friday, July 30, 2010
Sad News and the End of the Intensive!!
Hi!!! So, it has a been a LONG 2 weeks. Camp has been crazy, and I've definitely gained a lot from it. On top of that, I've also learned some tap along the way!
(pic)
Unfortunately, two slightly sad events have occurred over this past week. ( I'll give you a description of the past 5 days of camp (sadly I still could not get a hold of my camera charger! URG!! I'll have to get some friends to a send me their pics). You'll have to read the descriptions to find out what the sad events were :(.
(pic)
MONDAY
We had ballet, which was good but hard, as well as jazz (we learned an awesome jazz number) and contemporary.
TUESDAY
The good news is I finally got my left leg splits!! Eeeek!! (Before I could only do right leg). Although it's just barely and it still huts insanely... but with time and stretching I am confident I will become comfortable in it.
(pic)
WEDNESDAY
Lots of ballet on Wednesday which was awesome!
THURSDAY
I wasn't feeling too well, but you know us dancers, always trying to get up and dance anyway... maybe that wasn't such a good idea. So the first bit of sad news is that I asked my teacher if I'd be able to go on pointe (since it was Thursday and she said maybe as soon as camp was over) but she said no... :'( I guess it's not that sad as it will happen one day... but I really thought I had what it took. She said my feet and ankles were probably strong enough but I needed to "polish my technique". She's probably right, and I know a true dancer needs to be able to take moments like these. But anyway, as I said in my very first post, I'm probably switching schools in the fall anyway and things will change.
(pic)
FRIDAY
The second bad/sad event was I think I really overdid it and just got sick from overuse, especially since on top of camp I had classes. So I had to miss today (Friday) which was going to be the presentation! :'( :'(
Anyway, thanks for reading and I hope you're having a great summer!
How did your dance intensive go? (If you went to one)
Are you on pointe? What does it take, and what advice would you give to someone dying to get on it?
P.S. I know it just says (pic) right now where there are supposed to be pictures, the photo thing on my computer isn't working I'll g back and edit in pictures on another computer soon.
(pic)
Unfortunately, two slightly sad events have occurred over this past week. ( I'll give you a description of the past 5 days of camp (sadly I still could not get a hold of my camera charger! URG!! I'll have to get some friends to a send me their pics). You'll have to read the descriptions to find out what the sad events were :(.
(pic)
MONDAY
We had ballet, which was good but hard, as well as jazz (we learned an awesome jazz number) and contemporary.
TUESDAY
The good news is I finally got my left leg splits!! Eeeek!! (Before I could only do right leg). Although it's just barely and it still huts insanely... but with time and stretching I am confident I will become comfortable in it.
(pic)
WEDNESDAY
Lots of ballet on Wednesday which was awesome!
THURSDAY
I wasn't feeling too well, but you know us dancers, always trying to get up and dance anyway... maybe that wasn't such a good idea. So the first bit of sad news is that I asked my teacher if I'd be able to go on pointe (since it was Thursday and she said maybe as soon as camp was over) but she said no... :'( I guess it's not that sad as it will happen one day... but I really thought I had what it took. She said my feet and ankles were probably strong enough but I needed to "polish my technique". She's probably right, and I know a true dancer needs to be able to take moments like these. But anyway, as I said in my very first post, I'm probably switching schools in the fall anyway and things will change.
(pic)
FRIDAY
The second bad/sad event was I think I really overdid it and just got sick from overuse, especially since on top of camp I had classes. So I had to miss today (Friday) which was going to be the presentation! :'( :'(
Anyway, thanks for reading and I hope you're having a great summer!
How did your dance intensive go? (If you went to one)
Are you on pointe? What does it take, and what advice would you give to someone dying to get on it?
P.S. I know it just says (pic) right now where there are supposed to be pictures, the photo thing on my computer isn't working I'll g back and edit in pictures on another computer soon.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Bad News about the D.I. Diaries!!
Hi guys!!!! So listen, I am about to confess something and I feel TERRIBLE. But don't worry, I will make up for it!!!!
The truth is... it turns out... I'm not superwoman. I am utterly exhausted. And tomorrow I'm going to be in the dance studio from 10 am to 8 pm. Or maybe just till 5:30, depending. But either way, that's a lot to withstand and I am dying from heat and exhaustion here.
Soo... I don't think I'll be able to do a post everyday. I sincerely wish I could but it's just not realistic considering I also have a part-time job on top of dance these 2 weeks, so I think we'll have to put the Dance Intensive Diaries on a hault.
HOWEVER, at the end of each week, I will do an extremely detailed/descriptive piece chock-full of tips, advice, descriptions, pics and tons more, so I'm not totally flaking on you! It will have each day listed and describe them in short paragraphs too. Enjoy!
Again, so sorry! Please forgive me!
The truth is... it turns out... I'm not superwoman. I am utterly exhausted. And tomorrow I'm going to be in the dance studio from 10 am to 8 pm. Or maybe just till 5:30, depending. But either way, that's a lot to withstand and I am dying from heat and exhaustion here.
Soo... I don't think I'll be able to do a post everyday. I sincerely wish I could but it's just not realistic considering I also have a part-time job on top of dance these 2 weeks, so I think we'll have to put the Dance Intensive Diaries on a hault.
HOWEVER, at the end of each week, I will do an extremely detailed/descriptive piece chock-full of tips, advice, descriptions, pics and tons more, so I'm not totally flaking on you! It will have each day listed and describe them in short paragraphs too. Enjoy!
Again, so sorry! Please forgive me!
Monday, July 19, 2010
D.I. Diaries: Entry 1- FEET!
PART 1: OW. OWWWW. OW OW OWWWWWW!!!! That is what I wish I could do out loud. Just howl with pain. My feet hurt sooo bad. That was a lot of dancing. *Exhales for about 10 seconds, exhaustedly*. And sorry I'm not going to add images to the ones this week I left my camera charger at a friend's.
So in case you're not up to date with some random person on the internet's (my) life, I just started my first day of a 2 week dance intensive.
We had 2 hours of ballet, which was fun, but tiring. Next we had lunch (at 12) and after that had stretching & conditioning, then jazz & contemporary. And just like that, 5 hours had flown by!
PART 2: This part is for tips/advice. So the focus on Entry 1's Part 2 will be feet, since they get sooo sore. I only sat once that whole day, and that was at lunch. So tips for keeping your tootsies happy:
* Get a hand towel wet with lukewarm (or hot, whichever you prefer) water and soak your feet, You could also soak them in a tub, but I like massage with a towel.
* Scrub with an exfoliant
* Massage with lotion or foot butter. Anything works, truthfully the brand doesn't matter to me as long as it doesn't smell putrid and leave a greasy residue.
Ta-da! Your feet should be pretty happy!
PART 3: Topic question:
How do you save feet in dire need of attention? How do you keep them from getting too sore?
So in case you're not up to date with some random person on the internet's (my) life, I just started my first day of a 2 week dance intensive.
We had 2 hours of ballet, which was fun, but tiring. Next we had lunch (at 12) and after that had stretching & conditioning, then jazz & contemporary. And just like that, 5 hours had flown by!
PART 2: This part is for tips/advice. So the focus on Entry 1's Part 2 will be feet, since they get sooo sore. I only sat once that whole day, and that was at lunch. So tips for keeping your tootsies happy:
* Get a hand towel wet with lukewarm (or hot, whichever you prefer) water and soak your feet, You could also soak them in a tub, but I like massage with a towel.
* Scrub with an exfoliant
* Massage with lotion or foot butter. Anything works, truthfully the brand doesn't matter to me as long as it doesn't smell putrid and leave a greasy residue.
Ta-da! Your feet should be pretty happy!
PART 3: Topic question:
How do you save feet in dire need of attention? How do you keep them from getting too sore?
Sunday, July 18, 2010
I Recommend: Dancewear Solutions
Hi guys! (Now, I am actually talking to readers! Not just little figments of my imagination! :P)
So, typically, this is not a place where I rant about brands, and talk about the coolest stores and blah blah, because honestly I don't like feeling like I'm "advertising" things.
HOWEVER, this is one of those situations where I feel a recommendation is definitely in order, and I think you will benefit from it and be very pleased :).
When I started dancing, I found an online company called Dancewear Solutions, and I LOVE it. Honestly, how could I live without it? I amazingly inexpensive, and it has everything. From ballet apparel to tap shoes to costumes to whosie whatsits and this and thats... you name, they've got it. Not to mention they have all the best brands: Capezio, Bloch, Danskin, Harmonie, Bunheads....
But lots of companies have the same features, so why Dancewear Solutions??
Well, they're just so much less expensive than everywhere else... shockingly so, and I can assure you quality does not suffer. For example, a pair of 36'' black legwarmers on Capezio is $19. At DwS, the same ones are $8!... A good deal? I think so. (They're Harmonie in case you're wondering).
Plus, it's great for the following:
* Teachers: It's got tons of costumes for performances, from lyrical dresses, to tutus for the little ones, etc.
* Students: It features a lot of the basics, like every single colored basic leotards, soft slippers and pointe shoes, tights, etc...
* Dance Enthusiasts, Moms, (even Dads): Lots of encouraging tees, great gifts for your young dancers, (I sound like a testimonial :P), and also pins and stuff for enthusiasts
* Those on pointe: TONS of pointe shoe accessories, but less expensive!
*Teams: you can get matching stuff and costumes!
I hope you enjoyed (or at least didn't mind) my little rant about the awesomness of DwS!
So, typically, this is not a place where I rant about brands, and talk about the coolest stores and blah blah, because honestly I don't like feeling like I'm "advertising" things.
HOWEVER, this is one of those situations where I feel a recommendation is definitely in order, and I think you will benefit from it and be very pleased :).
When I started dancing, I found an online company called Dancewear Solutions, and I LOVE it. Honestly, how could I live without it? I amazingly inexpensive, and it has everything. From ballet apparel to tap shoes to costumes to whosie whatsits and this and thats... you name, they've got it. Not to mention they have all the best brands: Capezio, Bloch, Danskin, Harmonie, Bunheads....
But lots of companies have the same features, so why Dancewear Solutions??
Well, they're just so much less expensive than everywhere else... shockingly so, and I can assure you quality does not suffer. For example, a pair of 36'' black legwarmers on Capezio is $19. At DwS, the same ones are $8!... A good deal? I think so. (They're Harmonie in case you're wondering).
Plus, it's great for the following:
* Teachers: It's got tons of costumes for performances, from lyrical dresses, to tutus for the little ones, etc.
* Students: It features a lot of the basics, like every single colored basic leotards, soft slippers and pointe shoes, tights, etc...
* Dance Enthusiasts, Moms, (even Dads): Lots of encouraging tees, great gifts for your young dancers, (I sound like a testimonial :P), and also pins and stuff for enthusiasts
* Those on pointe: TONS of pointe shoe accessories, but less expensive!
*Teams: you can get matching stuff and costumes!
I hope you enjoyed (or at least didn't mind) my little rant about the awesomness of DwS!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
The World's Cutest Thing: Bulldogs in Tutus
OK, so I know some of you animal activists are going to be outraged by the fact that I support putting an unsuspecting little dog in costumewear, (you're going to say, "they're not barbie dolls"), but c'mon, you gotta admit...
...They're freakin' cute in tutus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
...They're freakin' cute in tutus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
COMING UP...
Heyyyy there! (When I was little, I thought "Hey" was a curse word. I'm not sure why... Just thought I'd share that).
So, I have some big news for you guys!! I'm going to a Dance Intensive starting Monday!! Eeeek I'm excited!
(c)summercampmemphis.com
OK, it's not at exactly the School of American Ballet or anything, just a local little school, but I'm still really excited! It's from 10 to 3 everyday for the next 2 weeks except Saturday and Sunday, and I've got a whole schedule and everything planned! I'm psyched! Plus, outside of camp I've also got 2 ballet and 1 modern class, (How I'll survive both? I don't know!)
(c) russianatlanta.net
Soooo.... How does this effect you? WELL, I am starting a new series based on it! Everyday of camp I will come home and do a post for you at around 5 (not sure what time zone you're in so it may be different). They are all going to have this structure:
Part I- Talk about what we worked on and describe stuff we've done (& PICTURES!)
Part II- Translate what I've learned that day into a compiled list of helpful tips & strategies for YOU! (That way if the first part bores you it wont be a total waste :P)
Part III- This is the part you guys are gonna do! I'll give you a Part 3 topic question and you'll answer! (Hopefully, if I'm lucky)
So that means you'll get 12 full days of brand new posts! Yayyy!!! (I will post everyday except for Sunday, my day of pure rest! Although who knows I'll probably get bored and post anyway on Sunday.) On Saturdays my posts wont be structured, I'll just talk about the week and stuff! I hope you enjoy!
WAIT!
(c) Alice in Wonderland
One more thing... the Title!! It's going to be called D.I. Diaries (D.I. is for Dance Intensive)! Enjoy! Talk to you Monday! (Or sooner!)
Are any of you guys going to a dance intensive this summer?
Have you already been to one?
What other stuff (dance or non-dance) are you doing for the summer?
Don't you LOVE Alice in Wonderland (had to add that)? Did you see the Tim Burton one??
So, I have some big news for you guys!! I'm going to a Dance Intensive starting Monday!! Eeeek I'm excited!
(c)summercampmemphis.com
OK, it's not at exactly the School of American Ballet or anything, just a local little school, but I'm still really excited! It's from 10 to 3 everyday for the next 2 weeks except Saturday and Sunday, and I've got a whole schedule and everything planned! I'm psyched! Plus, outside of camp I've also got 2 ballet and 1 modern class, (How I'll survive both? I don't know!)
(c) russianatlanta.net
Soooo.... How does this effect you? WELL, I am starting a new series based on it! Everyday of camp I will come home and do a post for you at around 5 (not sure what time zone you're in so it may be different). They are all going to have this structure:
Part I- Talk about what we worked on and describe stuff we've done (& PICTURES!)
Part II- Translate what I've learned that day into a compiled list of helpful tips & strategies for YOU! (That way if the first part bores you it wont be a total waste :P)
Part III- This is the part you guys are gonna do! I'll give you a Part 3 topic question and you'll answer! (Hopefully, if I'm lucky)
So that means you'll get 12 full days of brand new posts! Yayyy!!! (I will post everyday except for Sunday, my day of pure rest! Although who knows I'll probably get bored and post anyway on Sunday.) On Saturdays my posts wont be structured, I'll just talk about the week and stuff! I hope you enjoy!
WAIT!
(c) Alice in Wonderland
One more thing... the Title!! It's going to be called D.I. Diaries (D.I. is for Dance Intensive)! Enjoy! Talk to you Monday! (Or sooner!)
Are any of you guys going to a dance intensive this summer?
Have you already been to one?
What other stuff (dance or non-dance) are you doing for the summer?
Don't you LOVE Alice in Wonderland (had to add that)? Did you see the Tim Burton one??
A Really Awesome Blog!
Hey guys, so I've been searching the Blogosphere, and along the way I've seen some really neat blogs! One of my favorites is From Plies to Pirouettes !
It's focused on ballet and has tons of articles! She does daily stuff, such as "Monday's Blog Brag", "Tuesdays Tips", et cetera. It's awesome because there's always something new, so you never get bored with it. Plus, she's also a late-starter, like me, which is awesome 'cause I don't have many people I can relate to about that! Everyone else my age has been doing since they were 5, but perseverance is key! Just like she says in her DO's and DON'Ts Blog
Another thing I love is her Weekly Inspiration, because sometimes it's hard to get through these trying times as a dancer, and we all need a little inspiration!
So check it out guys! Thanks for reading!
It's focused on ballet and has tons of articles! She does daily stuff, such as "Monday's Blog Brag", "Tuesdays Tips", et cetera. It's awesome because there's always something new, so you never get bored with it. Plus, she's also a late-starter, like me, which is awesome 'cause I don't have many people I can relate to about that! Everyone else my age has been doing since they were 5, but perseverance is key! Just like she says in her DO's and DON'Ts Blog
Another thing I love is her Weekly Inspiration, because sometimes it's hard to get through these trying times as a dancer, and we all need a little inspiration!
So check it out guys! Thanks for reading!
Arabesques & Attitudes
The Arabesque-- Thought to be one of the most beautiful of all stances in ballet. Yet, for those whom have conduct it, it proves to be quite a nuisance to achieve. I did not come out of the womb as a natural-born Gumby with my back having the flexibility of a bendy-straw. Few of us did. However, all is not lost! Because, that's right, we can STRETCH! So, I've compiled some arabesque stretches for you! (The Arabesque stretches will help your Attitudes and vise versa).
Stretch 1: Arabesque on Barre
(c) StretchGym.com
Unfortunately this is the best pic I could find (sorry it has writing on it). So basically she's putting her leg up on a barre (you don't need that fancy equipment, a desk, a counter-top, a ladder... anything will do). She has it straight out behind her, and her back is also straight. Remember to keep your hips facing forward too.
Stretch 2: Sun Salutations
(c) Yoga-Health.com
So these are called Sun Salutations, they're yoga poses that my teacher says really help your arabesques. The second and last ones are the best, the other two wont really do anything. Another one is where you lie on your stomach, and then list your upper body up as much as physically possible while keeping your hips on the ground.
Stretch 3: Penchee Stretch
(c) chalkbucket.com
Penchees are great for stretching for arabesques if you really make sure you stretch out your leg!
Do each of these consistently, and one day you'll be able to achieve this!
(c) bailarinas.kit.net
And now for...
Attitudes-- for these you use similar muscles as an arabesque, but your leg is bent and turned out. The arabesque stretches will help, but there is another you can try!
Stretch 4: Attitude on Barre
(c) photobucket.com
The attitude stretch on the barre is much like arabesque stretch, but you bend your leg and rest your KNEE on the barre. Your thigh should be directly behind you, so you can't see it if you look head-on. And make sure your hips are forward and your back is straight! (YES, that insanely painful pinch in your lower back and butt is a GOOD thing! :P Perservere!)
And one day, you'll have this:
Stretch 1: Arabesque on Barre
(c) StretchGym.com
Unfortunately this is the best pic I could find (sorry it has writing on it). So basically she's putting her leg up on a barre (you don't need that fancy equipment, a desk, a counter-top, a ladder... anything will do). She has it straight out behind her, and her back is also straight. Remember to keep your hips facing forward too.
Stretch 2: Sun Salutations
(c) Yoga-Health.com
So these are called Sun Salutations, they're yoga poses that my teacher says really help your arabesques. The second and last ones are the best, the other two wont really do anything. Another one is where you lie on your stomach, and then list your upper body up as much as physically possible while keeping your hips on the ground.
Stretch 3: Penchee Stretch
(c) chalkbucket.com
Penchees are great for stretching for arabesques if you really make sure you stretch out your leg!
Do each of these consistently, and one day you'll be able to achieve this!
(c) bailarinas.kit.net
And now for...
Attitudes-- for these you use similar muscles as an arabesque, but your leg is bent and turned out. The arabesque stretches will help, but there is another you can try!
Stretch 4: Attitude on Barre
(c) photobucket.com
The attitude stretch on the barre is much like arabesque stretch, but you bend your leg and rest your KNEE on the barre. Your thigh should be directly behind you, so you can't see it if you look head-on. And make sure your hips are forward and your back is straight! (YES, that insanely painful pinch in your lower back and butt is a GOOD thing! :P Perservere!)
And one day, you'll have this:
Friday, July 9, 2010
Granola!!!
I was eating my usual bowl of granola this morning, and just thought, wow, this stuff is amazing.
(c) forladiesbyladies.com
I mean, it's filling. It's delicious. It's healthy. It gives me lots of energy. But most important, it really IS pure delish. I love it. I have a special recipe for it, you wanna know it? (It's not really that original AT ALL but oh well!)
HONEY-FRUIT GRANOLA:
(c) bbcgoodfood.com
~ You put one thin layer of granola
~ Now a layer of Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is tart, so drizzle on lots of honey!
~ Now add another very thin layer of granola, and drizzle on more honey.
~ Top with berries & apples and fruity goodness!
Voila! You now have a delicious bowl of granola :)
What's your staple breakfast?
(c) forladiesbyladies.com
I mean, it's filling. It's delicious. It's healthy. It gives me lots of energy. But most important, it really IS pure delish. I love it. I have a special recipe for it, you wanna know it? (It's not really that original AT ALL but oh well!)
HONEY-FRUIT GRANOLA:
(c) bbcgoodfood.com
~ You put one thin layer of granola
~ Now a layer of Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is tart, so drizzle on lots of honey!
~ Now add another very thin layer of granola, and drizzle on more honey.
~ Top with berries & apples and fruity goodness!
Voila! You now have a delicious bowl of granola :)
What's your staple breakfast?
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Surviving a Summer Dance Intensive
Yup--that's right, I again find myself experiencing extreme boredom, hence the second blog of the day! But I'm not just writing because I'm bored. I am writing because I like writing, I need a creative outlet, and I think this is a worthwhile topic in case by some miracle you dropped by and decided to read this.
Many of us, myself included, are attending intensives and 5+ hour a day dance (and really any other type of athletic) camps this summer. So what will get you through? I know I get tired after an intense two hour session, so how will I get through 5 to 6 hours? Three staple things: Food, rest, and WATER!!! Below I will write detailed tips about the 3 staples to getcha through this "intense" (as the name "intensive implies) amount of dance, or really any type of intense sport or exercise (i.e. this works for soccer camps, horse camps...).
No copyright infringement intended. All copyrights (c) go to Joffrey.com and Herbert Migdoll, photographer.
FOOD
(c) flickr.com
It is vital to eat well with vigorous exercise, and for dance this is especially important. This means no Twinkies! But it also means you shouldn't skip out on filling food. You NEED the fuel, and eating two measly meals a day also wont do. So here are some tips to help get you through it and keep you energized.
~Eat things with lots of fiber, you'll be much fuller.
~Whole grains provide long-lasting energy. All-white Wonderbread doesn't.
~Eat a wide, wide array of natural colors. You probably have heard this a million times over from moms, lunch aides, etc. but it's SO important to keep balanced!
~Meat & protein is important for muscles!
~Multivitamins are a good back-up in case you don't get enough in your diet.
~Bring about 5 or more granola bars, they really sustain you. I'd recommend Cliff, Kashi, or Special K if you have a sweet tooth like me!
~OK, now I'm not going to lie, although it isn't exactly "all-natural", sports drinks like Gatorade can really give you that extra kick sometimes. But DON'T rely on it. Have it at most every other day so you're body doesn't get trained to crave sugar, and don't have more than a bottle in a day. This leads me to our next topic. In order to stay hydrated, you need lots of...
WATER!
(c) yalesustainability.wordpess.com
Drinking water is so, SO vital. Here are some tips.
~Drink AS MUCH water as OFTEN as you possibly can. That means in between breaks, etc. Your body needs far more water than you think, especially when you're sweating it all out! You need about twice as much water than you actually get thirsty for. If you're really thirsty, that's not so good.
~Some places recommend as much as a cup of water every 15 minutes before, after, and even during intense dance (& other exercise). Obviously, this seems like an impossible amount to consume, not to mention you'd have to pee like crazy. I'd say about 2 cups an hour is good to shoot for. (I am not a doctor or trained professional, however. If you really want specific amounts, consult a pro).
~Increase fluid (water) consumption for 3 hours after dancing.
REST
(c) uvm.edu
Rest is also vitally important. There's more to it than just, "OK, I'll try and get some sleep", so read up!
~Most intensives, whether they're sleepaway or not, start early. Many people tend to stay up late and wake up late, so this change of sleeping schedule can be difficult. The best thing to do is get into a routine, and stick with it. This could be dinner, shower, relax, sleep, or shower, dinner, relax, sleep, or it could include watching your favorite TV show, or whatever you please. Just make sure it's always at the same time, that way you can train your body to know when it's winding down for sleep.
~Experts recommend winding down an hour before sleep. Reading a simple, quiet book for the 5th time or sitting in a massage chair (or just a comfy chair/couch) for a while listening to calming music are good example. Rocking out with buds playing the Wii, etc. are not.
Many of us, myself included, are attending intensives and 5+ hour a day dance (and really any other type of athletic) camps this summer. So what will get you through? I know I get tired after an intense two hour session, so how will I get through 5 to 6 hours? Three staple things: Food, rest, and WATER!!! Below I will write detailed tips about the 3 staples to getcha through this "intense" (as the name "intensive implies) amount of dance, or really any type of intense sport or exercise (i.e. this works for soccer camps, horse camps...).
No copyright infringement intended. All copyrights (c) go to Joffrey.com and Herbert Migdoll, photographer.
FOOD
(c) flickr.com
It is vital to eat well with vigorous exercise, and for dance this is especially important. This means no Twinkies! But it also means you shouldn't skip out on filling food. You NEED the fuel, and eating two measly meals a day also wont do. So here are some tips to help get you through it and keep you energized.
~Eat things with lots of fiber, you'll be much fuller.
~Whole grains provide long-lasting energy. All-white Wonderbread doesn't.
~Eat a wide, wide array of natural colors. You probably have heard this a million times over from moms, lunch aides, etc. but it's SO important to keep balanced!
~Meat & protein is important for muscles!
~Multivitamins are a good back-up in case you don't get enough in your diet.
~Bring about 5 or more granola bars, they really sustain you. I'd recommend Cliff, Kashi, or Special K if you have a sweet tooth like me!
~OK, now I'm not going to lie, although it isn't exactly "all-natural", sports drinks like Gatorade can really give you that extra kick sometimes. But DON'T rely on it. Have it at most every other day so you're body doesn't get trained to crave sugar, and don't have more than a bottle in a day. This leads me to our next topic. In order to stay hydrated, you need lots of...
WATER!
(c) yalesustainability.wordpess.com
Drinking water is so, SO vital. Here are some tips.
~Drink AS MUCH water as OFTEN as you possibly can. That means in between breaks, etc. Your body needs far more water than you think, especially when you're sweating it all out! You need about twice as much water than you actually get thirsty for. If you're really thirsty, that's not so good.
~Some places recommend as much as a cup of water every 15 minutes before, after, and even during intense dance (& other exercise). Obviously, this seems like an impossible amount to consume, not to mention you'd have to pee like crazy. I'd say about 2 cups an hour is good to shoot for. (I am not a doctor or trained professional, however. If you really want specific amounts, consult a pro).
~Increase fluid (water) consumption for 3 hours after dancing.
REST
(c) uvm.edu
Rest is also vitally important. There's more to it than just, "OK, I'll try and get some sleep", so read up!
~Most intensives, whether they're sleepaway or not, start early. Many people tend to stay up late and wake up late, so this change of sleeping schedule can be difficult. The best thing to do is get into a routine, and stick with it. This could be dinner, shower, relax, sleep, or shower, dinner, relax, sleep, or it could include watching your favorite TV show, or whatever you please. Just make sure it's always at the same time, that way you can train your body to know when it's winding down for sleep.
~Experts recommend winding down an hour before sleep. Reading a simple, quiet book for the 5th time or sitting in a massage chair (or just a comfy chair/couch) for a while listening to calming music are good example. Rocking out with buds playing the Wii, etc. are not.
Straddle Splits! Ahhh!!
I will here discuss one of my worst nightmares... straddle splits! They are impossibly difficult to achieve and the stretch my teacher makes us do is insane. We lie back facing floor, and then, against the wall, do as big a straddle as we can muster. We sit like that for 5 minutes until the force of gravity is so strong and cruel our legs have a burning sensation and we can't get up. Just in case you can't picture it, it's like this: 
By the way this is not me and I own no rights to this photo. I give all credit to IRAdance.com and intend no copyright infringement.
It's utterly ridiculous. However, it works, and I could feel more flexible already. I don't know though if I will ever achieve the straddle splits, fully. With front splits it's easier because it is based less on your hip shape and more on your muscles. For me, anyway. With straddles, unless you have a specific hip shape it wont be easy. Hopefully though it will be possible for me to achieve them with time and work. I'll keep you posted (I realize I am still talking to no one :P)
How do you feel about straddle splits?
Have you achieved them?
If you haven't, do you want to?
What stretches do you do?
By the way this is not me and I own no rights to this photo. I give all credit to IRAdance.com and intend no copyright infringement.
It's utterly ridiculous. However, it works, and I could feel more flexible already. I don't know though if I will ever achieve the straddle splits, fully. With front splits it's easier because it is based less on your hip shape and more on your muscles. For me, anyway. With straddles, unless you have a specific hip shape it wont be easy. Hopefully though it will be possible for me to achieve them with time and work. I'll keep you posted (I realize I am still talking to no one :P)
How do you feel about straddle splits?
Have you achieved them?
If you haven't, do you want to?
What stretches do you do?
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Pilot Post
You know how the first episode of a TV show is called a pilot? Well, that's what I'm calling my first blog.
I'm going to introduce myself a bit. However, I don't know what good it will do considering it is unlikely anyone will read this (Although if you do, please leave a comment, I could use your support!) I will provide you with the knowledge that I like ballet, amongst other things, and generally love to write. Plus, it's summer, and I'm bored out of my mind. So this has led me to blog.
I have been doing ballet for about a year. I started later than some of my peers, but I feel I am catching up very quickly as I do it quite a few times a week, and hope to advance soon and maybe even going onto pointe within a year (fingers crossed!). I will be leaving the smaller, owned-by-one-person studio in my area and am auditioning for a more prestigious dance school come fall, so wish me luck! (Or not, it's your choice).
Now I will briefly explain the articles that may possibly be found on this blog. If I ever find my self in this excruciatingly bored state of mind, which is likely, you'll probably see blogs about: ballet technique, flexibility, leotards, performances, auditioning, pointe shoes, life, horses, fashion, ice cream, and just general life ponderings. And who knows? Maybe you (I realize by "you" I am currently talking to no one) will like these random blogs.
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