Hip-hop is a dance style gaining in popularity. Dance schools, clubs and television shows are highlighting this fun, challenging and active genre of dance. Dancing develops strength, increases cardiovascular endurance, agility and coordination to name just a few benefits. While hip-hop can engage every muscle in your body, it can also put you at risk for injury.
Foot specialist, Dr. Tina Boucher helps dancers manage their foot and ankle health on a regular basis. There are situations where injuries can happen that are out of your control but others are preventable. Here are a few risks to watch out for:
• Skipping the warm-up – There is true value to avoid injury in giving your muscles a chance to warm up and prepare for what is ahead.
• Improper technique – This type of dance can involve some challenging movements. Trying something out of your difficulty level or without having learned the proper technique is setting the stage for all sorts of injuries.
• Pushing past the limit – When you have been dancing regularly, you could be putting your body at risk for overuse injuries. If something is painful or feels strained, take some time off and gradually build back up your strength.
• Wrong footwear – Most styles of dance require a certain type of footwear and hip-hop is no exception. The right shoes give your feet the support and cushioning they need and provide a good foundation while dancing.
Are you a dancer struggling with foot or ankle pain? Let us help you get back on the floor. Contact Central Connecticut Footcare Center at (203) 238-3668 to make an appointment today.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Monday, July 8, 2013
A Guide To Hip Hop Dancing
What is your exercise of choice? Did you know it is recommended that a healthy adult get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week? If you are in the fitness doldrums, maybe it is time you tried something fun such as hip hop dancing!
Hip hop is an energetic dance style that provides a great, whole body workout. You can join a class at a local dance school, an aerobics class at the gym focused on hip hop or use a video in the privacy of your own home. Look for something geared for beginners if you are just starting out and convince some friends to make it even more fun.
Dr. Tina Boucher is a foot specialist in Meriden, CT who helps keeps dancers on their feet. A hip hop workout is going to involve some movements that may be tricky or challenging so keeping things at your level will be important. Your feet are your foundation for every step, jump, leap and landing and need to be protected.
To stay safe and free of injury, keep your feet protected with the right footwear. The challenging and sometimes explosive movements will require a firm footing. Wear tennis shoes that have good support and cushioning. Warming up and conditioning your body are also key in preventing injuries. Strength exercises for your legs, abs and back outside of dance will only make you a better and stronger dancer as well.
A great idea before you dive into something new is to have your foot health evaluated. Dr. Boucher can identify any potential problems hip hop could bring and suggest beneficial prevention strategies. Call our Central Connecticut Footcare Center at (203) 238-3668 and make an appointment today!
Hip hop is an energetic dance style that provides a great, whole body workout. You can join a class at a local dance school, an aerobics class at the gym focused on hip hop or use a video in the privacy of your own home. Look for something geared for beginners if you are just starting out and convince some friends to make it even more fun.
Dr. Tina Boucher is a foot specialist in Meriden, CT who helps keeps dancers on their feet. A hip hop workout is going to involve some movements that may be tricky or challenging so keeping things at your level will be important. Your feet are your foundation for every step, jump, leap and landing and need to be protected.
To stay safe and free of injury, keep your feet protected with the right footwear. The challenging and sometimes explosive movements will require a firm footing. Wear tennis shoes that have good support and cushioning. Warming up and conditioning your body are also key in preventing injuries. Strength exercises for your legs, abs and back outside of dance will only make you a better and stronger dancer as well.
A great idea before you dive into something new is to have your foot health evaluated. Dr. Boucher can identify any potential problems hip hop could bring and suggest beneficial prevention strategies. Call our Central Connecticut Footcare Center at (203) 238-3668 and make an appointment today!
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