During lockdown, getting enough fun exercise has been a challenge for a lot of us. For professional dancers trying to maintain their skills and fitness, working alone, it’s been extra tricky. The bonus for people at home who love dancing is the profusion of online learning and training opportunities, many of them free.
Thanks to the internet, you don’t have to dance all by yourself while you’re social distancing. The healing power of dance is more accessible than ever.
Why dance?
As a form of aerobic exercise, dance has proven physical, mental and emotional benefits. It’s equally good for kids and adults, helping to build strength, endurance and self esteem.
No matter what sort of dance you love, or what level you’re at, there are online challenges that will inspire you and teach new skills.
On Insta, the legendary @Sir_Twitch_Alot and his partner @allisonholker have recently been sharing their moves with the world in collaboration with the American Heart Association.
The stars of the San Francisco Ballet are sharing their secrets and at-home-staying-in-condition tips on Instagram.
Also on Insta (and also Zoom) are theworldballet_official, connecting dancers from all around the world.
If choreography is more your thing, join 105,000 followers and check out dance_choreography.
Learntodance.com is offering HD video lessons in all styles, including ballroom and Latin, hip hop, salsa, tap, tango, ballet and belly dancing.
The JustDanceNow app (available for iPhone and Android) allows users to dance with the game or with other people connected to the software. All you need is a smartphone and a screen.
Australian dancer Claudia Dean has 230,000 subscribers to her free ballet tutorial channel, and there are a wide variety of free barre workouts of all kinds at Dance Dispatches.
If you prefer to watch some of the best in the world rather than risk breaking the china, some very fine Russian dancers in lock-down have been performing in their kitchens for fans.
Professional dancers or those with professional aspirations can do a YouTube class with Tamara Rojo, Artistic Director of the English National Ballet.
If you’re in need of dance inspiration closer to home, Australia’s own national ballet company has launched a free digital season including the great Graeme Murphy’s Romeo and Juliet.
For a limited time, the Australian Ballet is also offering At Home With Studios, completely free, as a gift to all Australians. These are 30-40 minute classes at Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced level.
Break a leg!
David Lowe
