Summer is basically every dancer’s dream time of year. Longer days, dance camps, conventions, intensives, rehearsals, pool days with your friends—you want to do everything. But dancing in the summer heat can leave you feeling exhausted way faster than you expect. Staying energized isn’t just about what you eat; it’s also about what you’re drinking throughout the day.
Water (Yes… It’s Still #1)
Yes, you’ve heard it a million times. Everyone says to drink more water. But there’s a reason for it. When you’re dancing outside, walking around amusement parks, or spending hours at dance intensives, you’re sweating way more than you probably realize. Even being slightly dehydrated can make you feel tired, dizzy, and less focused during class. Bonus points for a cute reusable water bottle that makes it so much easier to remember to drink throughout the day.
Electrolyte Drinks for Extra Sweaty Days
If you’ve been dancing for hours or spending all day outside, sometimes water alone isn’t enough. Drinks with electrolytes help replace some of what your body loses through sweat, which can help you feel good after a long rehearsal. You don’t need one every single day, but they’re great to have after a convention, dance camp, or especially hot practice. Some great options are Gatorade or Liquid IV.
Fruit Smoothies
Smoothies are one of the easiest ways to cool off while giving your body some energy (not to mention they are yummy). Throw together fruit such as strawberries, bananas, blueberries, or mango with yogurt or milk, and you’ve got a snack that actually keeps you going. They’re also perfect when you aren’t wanting to eat a whole meal before practice, but still something that will fill you up a bit.
Iced Green Tea
Need a little afternoon pick-me-up before evening rehearsal? Unsweetened iced green tea gives you a small boost of caffeine without feeling as heavy as some energy drinks. You can even find different fun and fruity flavors such as peach or watermelon.
Dance Your Best All Summer
The best summer memories happen when you actually have the energy to enjoy them. Whether you’re working toward a new skill at an intensive, spending weekends at competitions, or just dancing with your friends, staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to help your body perform its best. So before you pack your dance bag, don’t forget the most important part of the summer: a drink that’ll keep you feeling your best from warm-up to the final eight count.
