Summer is the perfect time to level up as a dancer. With more free time, nicer weather, and a fresh start, summer provides a perfect opportunity to try new skills.
Summer tricks are supposed to be fun, challenging, and exciting—not something that makes you feel pressured to be the best. Even leaving summer with one new skill can give you a confidence boost for the next competition season! Not to mention that there is something so fun about spending an afternoon outside or in your living room, randomly trying to learn a new trick that you saw someone do.
Illusions
Illusions a fun trick that instantly elevates any choreography piece. They might feel weird at first, but once the motion clicks in your brain, it feels like magic. Start slowly and focus more on control and spotting than speed. These are easy to learn at home on carpet, hardwood floor, or a Marley floor.
Headstands and Forearm Stands
These have been trending all over the internet recently, and for good reason. They are pretty easy to learn and are great for improving balance, core strength, and body awareness. Start by practicing against a wall and really focus on engaging your core before moving away from wall support for a simple trick and a great exercise.
Aerial Progressions
Even if you are not ready to fully land an aerial yet, summer is a great time to work on progressions such as dive cartwheels, one-handed cartwheels, or power hurdle cartwheels. Working on the foundations might seem boring and pointless, but they prepare you for trying to land an aerial in the future.
Leg hold turns
These instantly give “competition season comeback” energy. Before focusing on speed or how many you can do, focus on balancing and spotting. Summer is the perfect time to strengthen the muscles needed for cleaner turns instead of rushing the process during competition season. Even 10 minutes of practice each day will add up to major progress.
