Despite the majority of dancers participating in studios, conventions, and competitions being girls, boys are far from obsolete in the dance world. In many styles, boys are known for their role as duet partners, leading choreography and performing lifts, and for character roles in popular performances. But boys are more than a dash of masculine energy when the dance calls for it. Dance is for them too.
Dance is about expressing emotion, being powerful, and captivating an audience. There’s no gender for human expression! The arts are open for everyone who chooses to participate. Even football players take ballet classes to develop agility and balance, which translates onto the field. Whether someone does it for fun, exercise, or a form of therapy, dance provides lifelong skills.
Dance Builds Strength, Agility, and Endurance
Dancers are training just as hard as any other athlete. While dance is often reduced to simple turns and wearing tutus, dancers know there is so much more to it than that. Dance requires core strength, leg strength, flexibility, and skills that can only be built with years of effort and training. That is exactly why many professional athletes take dance classes to build up their stamina and endurance. After just one dance class, it is obvious how much strength goes into being a dancer. Dance is far from a “sport for girls.”
It is a Great Expressive Outlet
Often, guys feel as though they need to keep their emotions bottled up or just “play it cool.” Dance is a place to get rid of that stigma entirely. After all, dance is a form of expression and storytelling that uses the body to turn emotions into physical expression. Ballet, hip-hop, or improv, dance is a chance to make somebody feel something. Dancers don’t need to label themselves or be put into a box. Dance is a place where feeling emotions is powerful.
Dance Builds Confidence
There is just something so special about nailing that combo in class, or trying a new trick on stage for the first time, that skyrockets a dancer’s confidence. Dance teaches everyone who steps into the studio to hold themselves with purpose and confidence. While technique shines on stage, dance isn’t about being perfect. It is about continually showing up and putting in work. That effort is what creates a confident and skilled dancer.
Find Real Community
There is no better feeling than being surrounded by like-minded individuals who share similar goals and lifestyles. For many dancers, the studio is that special place. The dance world is full of passionate, creative, outgoing, and talented individuals. In the dance world, dancers can find a whole new family that pushes them to be better, cheers them on, and is there when they need them the most.
