Thursday, 8 August 2013

Dance Workout DVDs

As a dancer your body is important. Whether you're looking to lose weight or just tone up, there are so many DVDs on the market, especially dance based workouts. Here are some of my favourites.

The New York City Ballet Workout (Vol. 1 & 2) - From £14.40                                                             
If you don't want to buy both volumes and cannot chose which one to get, I would recommend volume 2. Most of the reviews say that it is better. I do not own the first volume, but I can say that the 2nd volume is fantastic, and the best dance based workout I've tried so far!








If none of these appeal to you, have a look on Amazon. There are hundreds of dance based workouts available there. There is bound to be one that suits your fancy!

Dance Magazines (England)

Dance magazines are a must have for any dancer. Whether you buy the odd issue or hold a subscription, it's always a treat to read the articles and look at the breathtaking photographs. Magazines can give you an insight into a dancer's life, upcoming shows and auditions and much more! There are a few on the market now, it's just a case of finding them!

Dancing Times is one of the leading dance magazines. This one is relatively easy to find and should be available in the arts section at W. H. Smith.

It's sister magazine Dance Today is a bit harder to find. It may sometimes be available in W. H. Smith and similar stores.

Dance Europe is less well known. This may not be sold in shops, but it is easily available to buy on their website.

The Stage Newspaper isn't specifically dance, but it always will always have various dance articles. If you're into Musical Theatre then this is ideal for you. This is widely available from supermarkets, W. H. Smith and other similar shops.

All of these magazines/newspapers are available on their websites. Click the magazine name to visit their website.


What Leotard Is Right For You?

There are so many beautiful leotards on the market, it's almost impossible to choose. When wearing your leotard you want to feel comfortable and look great! But which leotards are right for you? This article from the latest edition of Pointe Magazine has everything from broad shoulders to short torsos. Click here to read the full article.

Friday, 2 August 2013

Leotard Review

Capezio, Double Criss Cross Strap, Camisole Leotard


                                Image from ids.co.uk

This has to be my favourite leotard. It is so versatile in that it can be worn for class or a performance. It isn't too much for a lesson, yet it is more that suitable for a show. The shelf bra lining hold you tight which is important for a leotard like this as underwear would ruin the back decoration. (And this from a larger busted dancer!) Other than the back design, I love the neckline. It's not too wide, pointed or too low and is very flattering. Just as a warning, it falls quite high on the thigh. For me, this is not a problem, but understandably you may want to consider it.
It is Cotton/Lycra and great quality.
Overall, I would say this leotard is a must have! An essential for you dance wardrobe!

Buy this leotard:

Dance Direct - £16.95 (Black, White, Burgundy, Pink) ON SALE £13.56
Move Dancewear - £12.95 (Black, White, Navy)
Porselli - £13.35 (Black, White, Navy)
Dance Gear Direct - £15.95 (Black, Burgundy, Navy, Amethyst)

Similar Leotards:

Move Dancewear - Motionfit (Black, White, Mulberry) £13.95
Dance Direct - Plume (Black, Red, Orchid) £13.95

Monday, 15 July 2013

Porselli SALE*

*like most dancewear retailers, Porselli has ongoing sales. This is not an official sale, just the odd item has been reduced. However, after having a look, there are some great things on offer!

Click here to head on over to the Porselli Dancewear SALE!

FAVOURITES



This has to be one of the best sales I've seen! Enjoy!

Sunday, 14 July 2013

Capezio Convertible Duffle Bag - Review

The Capezio Convertible Duffle Bag is great for rehearsals and all day classes. With 8 different compartments, there is room for everything.
You can use the long shoulder straps, short straps (in the crook of your arm) or you can wear it as a backpack. There are two back straps hidden on the bottom of the bag. This is ideal if your bag is heavy (which I find mine often is with Tap shoes and a full water bottle alone.).
I love all the compartments in the bag. It enables me to keep my shoes and hair accessories separate from my clothes. I always used to have to rummage around for my Foot Undeez, but now I know where they are immediately.
There is also an elastic drawstring on the front, outside. This means, if your bottle leaks nothing gets wet!
However, I did have two small problems. When I first received the product and attached the long shoulder strap to the bag, the hook snapped! After exchanging my bag everything seemed fine. But, recently, the padded, movable part of the long strap unraveled and fell off. However, I'm not bothered about this as I never seem to find them very helpful.
All in all, I love this bag. It does everything I want it to! It may seem expensive, but it's worth every penny. For a dancer who has long days/all day classes/rehearsals I would thoroughly recommend this bag.
I think it is suitable for both girls and boys. It is only available in black with the Capezio logo written in silver.





What To Take In Your Dance Bag?

To Class:
1. Dance Shoes (And any accessories you need - i.e. for pointe work)
2. WATER!
3. Additional Dancewear (You may need a skirt for exam practice and it's best to rehearse with it so you're used to it by the time of your exam!)
4. Warm Ups (If it's cold you may want to take a jumper, leg warmers, shorts etc.)

Additional
5. Your Uniform. If you have uniform and have, say, been out with friends before class, don't forget to bring your uniform and dancewear to class! Otherwise you'll probably be rather uncomfortable. (Vice versa if you're going out afterwards)
6. Towel and Change of Clothes (Depending on how intense your lessons are)

To Rehearsal:
1. Dance Shoes (And any accessories you need - i.e. for pointe work)
2. WATER!
3. Food. Rehearsals can go on a long time, make sure you eat regularly. I've seen many people faint, on stage (!), due to dehydration and lack of energy (after not having eaten). Remember, the food you eat is being burnt off during rehearsal and your body needs it's fuel, just like a car!
3. Additional Dancewear (You may need a skirt - for example -  for your performance, so even if your costume hasn't arrived yet it may be a good idea to practice with a similar skirt. This way, if some of the staging doesn't work with your costume, it can be changed before everyone gets used to it!)
4. Warm Ups (If it's cold you may want to take a jumper, leg warmers, shorts etc.)
5. Something to Do. You might not be required for the whole rehearsal. So, in your breaks, unless you would just like to sit and watch the rehearsal (which is a good idea!), you might want to bring a book, or something else to keep you occupied. I wouldn't recommend listening to music as you need to be fully aware in rehearsals, in case you're needed. (Breaks are also a great opportunity to re-energize, and eat!)
6. Towel and Change of Clothes. (Depending on how intense your rehearsals are, and what you're afterwards)

Unless you've been told to bring anything else, this is all you should need.

Sunday, 30 June 2013

Dance Direct SALE

Click here to head on over to the Dance Direct SALE!

This season there are some great products in the sale.

Adult Leotards from £8.47

Children's Leotards from £6.10 and Tutus from £9.57

Crop Tops from £4.40

Dance Pants from £8.99

Shoes from £3.00

FAVOURITES


Enjoy the sales!



Sorry for the Delay!

Sorry I haven't posted for 2 weeks! I've been in shows and competitions so I haven't had the time to update the blog!

Here's what's coming soon:

What To Take In Your Dance Bag?
Dance Bag Reviews 
Leotard Reviews
Adult RAD Examination Uniform

Any Requests?
Just Comment!

Thanks Dancers!

Saturday, 1 June 2013

Monday, 27 May 2013

Boys Examination Uniform - Royal Academy of Dance (Children's Sizes)

There is a wide range of RAD examination uniforms available online. You may be able to buy them from your dance school so check with you teachers first (as it may be cheaper from them). If you do not have that option then here are the available products:

(Click text to view product)

Pre-Primary and Primary Grades
Dance Shorts (£9.50)   (With RAD logo)
Dance Shorts (£8.95)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved T-Shirt (£14.50)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved T-Shirt (£12.45)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£14.95)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£16.50)   (With RAD logo)
Dance Shorts (£8.95)
Dance Shorts (£9.50)
Dance Shorts (£9.95)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£8.95)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£9.25)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£10.95)

Grades 1 and 2
Short Sleeved Leotard (£14.95)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£16.50)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£8.95)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£9.25)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£10.95)

Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8
Short Sleeved Leotard (£14.95)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£16.50)   (With RAD logo)
Tank Leotard (£13.95)   (With RAD logo)
Tank Leotard (£15.95)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£8.95)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£9.25)
Short Sleeved Leotard (£10.95)
Tank Leotard (£8.50)
Tank Leotard (£9.25)
Tank Leotard (£9.95)

View Full Ranges
Planet Dance   (Official RAD garments)
Dance Gear Direct   (Official RAD garments)
Move Dancewear   (Official RAD garments)
Dance Direct
Porselli

Remember to take P&P into account.

Girls Examination Uniform - Royal Academy of Dance (Children's Sizes)

There is a wide range of RAD examination uniforms available online. You may be able to buy them from your dance school so check with you teachers first (as it may be cheaper from them). If you do not have that option then here are the available products:

(Click text to view product)

Pre-Primary and Primary Grades
Chloe Leotard and Skirt (£23.80)   (With RAD logo)
Georgette Crossover Skirt (£11.95)   (With RAD logo)
Chloe Leotard (£14.50)   (With RAD logo)
Chloe Leotard (£16.74)   (With RAD logo)
Short Sleeved Leotard - Plume (£7.95)
Short Sleeved Leotard - Bloch (£8.55)
Short Sleeved Leotard - Capezio (£7.10)
Georgette Wrap Skirt - Roch Valley (£10.95)
Wrap Skirt - Capezio (£7.15)

Grades 1 and 2
Aimee Leotard (£14.45)   (With RAD logo)
Aimee Leotard (£14.50)   (With RAD logo)
Aimee Leotard (£15.54)   (With RAD logo)
Tank Leotard - Plume (£6.95)
Character Skirt (£32.95)
Character Skirt (£22.95)

Grades 3, 4 and 5
Faith Leotard (£12.95 - £13.95)   (With RAD logo)
Faith Leotard (£9.95 - £10.95)   (With RAD logo)
Faith Leotard (£14.95)   (With RAD logo)
Faith Leotard (£14.95)   (With RAD logo)
Faith Short Sleeved Leotard (£12.45 - £14.45)   (With RAD logo)
Tank V-Neck Leotard (£13.14)

Character Skirt (£32.95)
Character Skirt (£22.95)

Grades 6, 7 and 8

Aimee Leotard (£14.45)   (With RAD logo)
Aimee Leotard (£14.50)   (With RAD logo)
Aimee Leotard (£15.54)   (With RAD logo)

Faith Leotard (£12.95 - £13.95)   (With RAD logo)
Faith Leotard (£9.95 - £10.95)   (With RAD logo)
Faith Leotard (£14.95)   (With RAD logo)
Faith Leotard (£14.95)   (With RAD logo)
Faith Short Sleeved Leotard (£12.45 - £14.45)   (With RAD logo)
Tank V-Neck Leotard (£13.14)

Tank Leotard - Plume (£6.95)
Character Skirt (£32.95)
Character Skirt (£22.95)
Georgette Repertoire Skirt (£19.50)
Circular Chiffon Skirt (£24.45)

Vocational Grades
Jane Leotard (£16.95)   (With RAD logo)
Jane Leotard (£18.50)   (With RAD logo)
Alice Leotard (£20.95)   (With RAD logo)
Alice Leotard (£23.95)   (With RAD logo)
Bethany Leotard (£22.45)   (With RAD logo)
Bethany Leotard (£23.95)   (With RAD logo)
Camisole Leotard (£11.50)
Tank V-Neck Leotard (£13.14)



View Full Ranges
Planet Dance   (Official RAD garments)
Dance Gear Direct   (Official RAD garments)
Move Dancewear   (Official RAD garments)
Dance Direct
Porselli


Remember to take P&P into account.


Sunday, 26 May 2013

Overview

So, the blog is now on it's way!
Here's a walk through of what's happening.

Firstly, have a look at the pages. (Listed horizontally above this post)

  • If you'd like to know about me and my dance background, see the "About Me" page.
  • The "I Can't" page clarifies what I will not 'teach' or pass on advice about at the moment.
  • Dancewear can be very expensive so it is wise to shop around. The "Dancewear Retailers" page contains links to my favourite and cheapest online retailers, so you don't have to waste time!
  • The "You Should Know" page is a brief look at what every dancer should know.
  • The "Stretches" page (coming soon) will hold pictures showing how to stretch to warm up and become more flexible.
  • The "Requests" page is exactly what it says! If you would like help with something, comment on the page and I will do my best to assist.
To the right of the blog is a poll. Feel free to vote for your favourite style of dance. This is followed by a picture of our "Dancer of the Week". If you have a dancer you'd like to be featured comment on the "Requests" page.
If you have any questions or tips relating to a post, comments are more than welcome!

I hope you've found the blog useful so far, there's a lot more to come!

I'll do my best to post at least every weekend.  

What to Wear to Ballet / Lyrical / Contemporary / Jazz / Modern / Tap Class? (Adults and Teens)

When you turn up for your first class you probably won't have your own dancewear. It's best to arrive in black leggings and a black top (and/or shorts if you wish). The most important thing is that you feel comfortable. If you know the class you are joining has uniform then try and wear a similar colour. This way you might feel more like part of the group. If you don't know then it's best to go with black.

If you have exam uniform, but no class uniform, then it is wise to wear it for class. Then you can get used to the feel of it and save money!

If you are not required to wear uniform for your class, and do not take exams, then here are some suggestions of what to wear for class:

Leotards

CLICK TO ENLARGE











Buy (Best Price):
1: http://www.movedancewear.com/leotards-move_motionfit_bibi_leotard/1405/
2: http://www.movedancewear.com/leotards-move_motionfit_caprice_leotard/1404/
3: http://www.dancegeardirect.co.uk/product/wendy-leotard-regulation
4: http://www.dancedirect.com/uk/Products/Ballet/P01/plume-leotard-tank/
5: http://www.dancedirect.com/uk/Products/Ballet/P07/plume-leotard-camisole/
6: http://www.dancedirect.com/uk/Products/Ballet/P02/plume-leotard-capsleeved/
7: http://www.dancedirect.com/uk/Products/Ballet/S4/plume-leotard-camisole-vfront/
8: https://dancewear.co.uk/products/details&prodid=878

Shorts, Leggings, Tights and Jazz Pants
If you prefer to wear leggings you may be able to find them cheap on the high street. However, I find these slide down so I prefer the leggings specifically made for dancing. Suitable shorts, stirrup tights, leggings and dance tights are available in many places. I recommend you take a look here.

Shorts
1: https://dancewear.co.uk/products&subcat=8
2: http://www.movedancewear.com/cat/dance_shorts/192/

Leggings and Stirrup Tights
1: http://www.dancedirect.com/uk/Products/Urban-Dancewear/P678/black-leggings-dance/
2: http://www.dancegeardirect.co.uk/category/leggings-and-shorts
3: http://www.movedancewear.com/cat/legwear_tights_leggings_capri_pants/34_55/

Tights
1: http://www.dancedirect.com/uk/Category/Ballet/Tights/
2: https://dancewear.co.uk/products&subcat=22
3: http://www.dancegeardirect.co.uk/category/tights-and-socks
4: http://www.movedancewear.com/cat/legwear_tights_dance_tights/34_46/
   (3 pairs in one pack available)

Jazz Pants
1: https://dancewear.co.uk/products&subcat=7
2: http://www.dancegeardirect.co.uk/category/jazz-pants
3: http://www.movedancewear.com/cat/jazz_pants_adults_jazz_pants/112_116/

Friday, 17 May 2013

How to do a Bridge from Standing:

Firstly, you MUST be able to do a bridge from the floor. (So lying on the floor and pushing yourself up)

Secondly, make sure you're warmed up. Try and do a full body stretch, but of course the main focus is the back and also arms.

Thirdly, try and do this on an exercise mat. If you don't have one to hand then soft flooring (i.e. carpet) should be sufficient. Don't try this on a wooden floor. (Once I didn't warm up and tried to do a bridge on a wooden floor. I then landed on my head instead of my hands. It hurt.) A reasonable space is needed.

So, here we go!

When you first try it is a good idea to have someone stand in front of you and hold your waist firmly.

  1. Put your arms up, making sure they are straight.
  2. Bend backwards as far as possible.
  3. Bend your knees when you need too.
  4. Then, the scary bit, you'll feel like you're falling, but don't worry. You should fall onto your hands.
If you do not warm up, you could fall on your head, not hands. Like I did. 
Keep giving it a go. It is scary, but once you get over the fear it's really fun! Remember, it is normal to fall, let it happen...otherwise your bridge won't!

GOOD LUCK!




Saturday, 11 May 2013

Capezio Freeform

These shoes are ideal for Lyrical, Contemporary, Ballet and Jazz! The adjustable strap allows for a perfect fit and reassurance that they won't fall off. They're available in black and tan. They may seem expensive but they are brilliant quality and can be used for so many styles. 















Buy
Best Price (Black Only) 
https://dancewear.co.uk/products/details&prodid=1792
Best Price (Tan Only) 
http://www.movedancewear.com/dance_shoes-capezio_freeform/1396/
Both Colours Available
http://www.dancewear365.com/shoes/lyrical/capezio-freeform-jazz-shoe/
http://www.dancedirect.com/uk/Products/Footwear/FF01/capezio-freeform-ballet-shoe-ff01/