Marvelous Monday and the Easy Eighth

Marvelous Monday and the Easy Eighth

Stretching is a dancer’s constant companion.  We do it to relax, we do it when we are waiting our turn in rehearsal, and of course we do it to improve our flexibility and extension.

When young dancers first learn to stretch, they are often surprised to learn that it is somewhat less than comfortable for them!   But they quickly learn the benefits.

Some dancers are more naturally flexible than others, but everyone can achieve good extension with time and practice.  I tell my students about the easy eighth:  simply strive to stretch an eighth of an inch further each day, and soon the results will show.  Sometimes I take a ruler and show how much an eighth of an inch is – so small it is achievable every day!

From the Big Blue Book of Ballet Secrets:

Secret #16j:  

“Strive to stretch just an eighth of an inch further every day.”

                Link of the Day:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1vpB6h3ek4

Quote of the Day:

“Success is due to our stretching to the challenges of life. Failure comes when we shrink from them.

-          John C. Maxwell

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