7 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Summer Intensive
Some obvious, some not-so-obvious. By putting some thought into these seven simple things, you’ll be on a firm path through a successful and beneficial summer that could influence the rest of your career.
1. Set goals
Go into the summer knowing what you should work on. Do you need to improve your pirouettes? Maximize your turnout? Stretch that extension?
Actively think about what you want to achieve from your time this summer. If you clearly define your goals, you’re more likely to see legitimate improvement.
2. Hydrate
It’s summer, it’s hot, and you’ll be sweating all day. Be sure to replace all the H2O you’ll be losing in the studio with multiple bottles of water a day as this will fight fatigue.
3. Sleep
It’s so exciting to be on your own, the world at your feet and to be surrounded by people just like you, looking to meet other dancers and have fun. While it’s important to enjoy your time, be sure to get those eight hours.
It’s never a good impression on the teacher to begin technique class with bags under your eyes and a yawn. You’ll need to be well-rested to make it through long hours of work.
4. Have good walking shoes
Often times, there is a short commute to and from the dormitories and dance studio. Be sure to wear good supportive shoes during the time you’re not dancing. After being on your feet all day you’ll be thankful for a pair of comfortable sneakers to wear on the way home.
5. Eat a balanced diet
Summer intensives are only a few weeks. You have to soak up and learn as much as you can in such a short amount of time.
You want your body functioning as well as it possibly can, which means you’ll want to put the best fuel in.
Eat lots of fruits and veggies and lots of protein. Having a good serving of protein for breakfast will keep you full longer and give you energy for the remainder of the day. Having a snack like a hearty trail mix or fruit in between classes can give you a great boost for those days you can’t help but feel sluggish.
6. Rotate your pointe shoes
Don’t wear the same pair over and over, they’ll die quicker. By rotating through a few pairs, you’ll give your shoes a chance to dry out which will extend their life. Your bank account will thank you!
7. Network
One of the best parts of summer intensives is the people you meet. As mentioned before, you’re surrounded by people that are like you and have similar long-term goals. These are people that not only could become lifelong friends, but will be reliable resources.
They can offer insights to where they have trained and worked. Stay focused on the reason you’re there, to dance, make connections with friends, councillors, and especially the teachers.
They will be more than happy to help you in your endeavours and can offer invaluable advice.