DanceArt Dear Jenny Archive 97 Part 1

April 29, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I am 19 years old and have a passion for dancing. The only problem is that I have no strength in my left ankle. I can't even begin to count how many times it has been sprained or twisted. It is very weak. I've seen doctors, and been through physical therapy. The only thing they haven't done is check for nerve damage, which they say is a possibility. It also could be that my tendons are stretched like jello, and the only way to properly correct it is through surgery. I guess my question is what can I do, do you have any strengthing exercises, or recommend a specialist? You see, I took ballet and jazz for 5 years, and pointe for 1 year (which made it worse). And I've had to stop dancing due to my ankle. Now I've gained weight, and my ankle still is no better, and I'm very unhappy not dancing. If you have any advice on how to mend this problem it would be greatly appreciated!

thanks, sore foot

Dear Sore Foot,

Well, it is time to get pretty methodical about chasing this. With this history of treatment you should have no problem getting a referral to a neurologist. Much of the initial testing they will do is very, very simple and painless. You need to eliminate every possibility so you don't spend more money and time in ineffective therapy.

Sports massage by a skilled professional can help reduce internal scarring in damaged tendon and muscle tissues. These trained hands will probably give you accurate feedback on old injuries and relative muscle tone at and around the ankle -- all at a very low cost.

The expensive MRI and CAT scans a doctor might order can show soft tissue and joint problems but physicians don't always read the pictures correctly so don't consider these technologies to be perfect. Always get second and third opinions from radiologists and orthopedic surgeons when dealing with any of these high-tech images.

I have a particular pair of dress flats that make me very prone to twisting my ankle. Something about the way sole or heal was built makes them the wrong shoe to wear for any occasion. My point is that you need to make sure that your normal street shoes are very stable and that nothing else in your daily life is preventing your ankles from healing.

Some people will sit and work at a desk, drive a car, or stand in a line on the sides of the feet, stretching the ankle. Sitting cross-legged like guys do can stretch the ankle. Sometimes the dumbest little habits we have outside the studio cause more problems than all dancing we do. A few years back I very nearly had bi-lateral knee surgery so I could keep dancing. That was, until I realized that I torqued my knees 8 times a day getting in and out of my little car. Don't stop thinking when you leave the studio.

An finally, on the PT subject. A therapist that doesn't specialize in sports or dance injuries can be worse for you than no therapy at all. I can't begin to suggest that you tackle any therapy or exercises until you have a better understanding of what the problem is. Really hope you can get it worked out.

Jen

April 24, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I am a fairly decent dancer, considering the fact that I have been dancing for 12 years and I'm only 14. I really love to dance, but I am very discouraged by my teacher. You see, she has her favorites, and even though I have been dancing longer, and have more experience, than them, I am not one. I'm not short for my age, but I'm no giant either, and I am continuously placed in the back line. I have made it pretty clear to her how upset I am, but she continues to place me there when there are girls five inches bigger than me who are in the front line. My mother suggested switching schools, but I have many friends there and do not wish to change. What should I do?

Danielle

Dear Danielle,

You seem to be focusing on your height. If your teacher has suggested or implied that your size is what determines your line placement, I'd bet she is just trying to be polite and spare your feelings. You need to be brave and ask her specifically about your technique and stage personality. Something isn't working for her. If you really don't know what the problem is, how can you work on it?

Her hang-up might be really minor. Perhaps there was a correction she used to give you that you've somehow over-looked or forgotten about. It is usually a good idea to be the squeaky wheel and let your teacher know how you feel. That said, she is going to be more concerned about your talent, potential, and growth as a dancer and those elements are exactly what you need to focus on.

It is entirely possible that your current teacher can't help you much more than she already has. She could be frustrated or focused on other dancers. That is a classroom dynamic that can be difficult to change. Being around your friends is both fun and comfortable, but you need new challenges and new adventures to speed your development.

Jen

April 21, 1997

Hello Jenny,

I'm interested in improving my extension, I'm a 30 year old man, taking class seriously for two years, and I find it difficult to bring my leg up to 90'. On the Barre, I can go higher, but there is still a great deal of tenseness. Splits are impossible. I'm just wondering if there is any hope?

Curious in Westchester

Dear Curious,

You seem to realize that flexibility is limiting your extension. Realize that if your full body weight can't press your legs into a split you are not likely going to overcome the inflexibility with a muscle contraction.

How tough is an extension or develope really? Here is a neat model of what you are trying to do, even ignoring the flexibility issue. Find a door in your home and pull it closed toward you, until it is open only about an inch. Place one hand on the door by the hinged side instead of by the door handle.

The hinge is your hip, the door is your leg, and your hand is simulating the muscle contractions that happen on the upper leg and torso. Try to push the door open, and try to push it fast. The longer your leg is, the more mass on the leg, and the closer the motivation or energy is to the fulcrum (hinge or hip joint) the more impossible this task becomes.

Move your hand closer to the center of the door and try again. Then use the door handle. Much easier. The door still weighs the same but the effort needed really decreases as the force moves away from the fulcrum. It would also be easier to open the door if you could decrease it's size.

So part of the 'trick' is learning to move the contraction as far away from the joint as possible. Flexibility is key, and control of opposing muscles is really important. The letter below from "Inflexible" might interest you too.

Jen

April 19, 1997

Dear Jenny,

My 10 year old daughter has been dancing since she was 4. She is very committed to dance, and dances around 12 hours a week. Most of her dance time is spent in ballet, but she also takes tap and jazz. We are getting ready to build her a dance room in the basement and are getting mix reviews on the kind of dance floor to put down. I want to put down the safest floor that will last. I know a marley type floor is best for ballet and pointe, but not for tap. A hardwood floor is best for tap, but too slippery for pointe. Harlequin makes a floor called Cascade that I have been told is used by Riverdance; I'm sure this will hold up with tap but I don't know how the sound would be with one tapper. It's a marley type floor so it will be good for ballet and pointe. She will be taking tap lessons here a home so I need a floor that will produce good sound. On the other hand, would a wood floor be o.k. for pointe and ballet, using rosen for pointe? I want to purchase the best and safest floor that can be used for all types of dance. I've talked to other dancers who have dance room at home all who have hardwood. Most say to get hardwood for tap and use rosen for pointe with the hardwood. Do you know of any floors that would suit our needs, or do we just compromise on sound with one floor or slippery floor with another? Have you heard of any finish for a hardwood that would allow you to dance on pointe without rosen? We are going to install a wood subfloor over the slab. Is this enough protection to avoid injuries due to a hard floor?Sorry for all the questions, I just want to make sure we make the right decision.

P.S. Love your column!

Looking For the Floor

Dear Looking,

We've asked some flooring manufacturers for feedback on your questions, but responses have been slow. Here are some of our thoughts on the issue.

There will likely be times when you'd appreciate a quiet floor / tap dancer. You might not want to deal with the airborne and tracked rosin in your home, and no matter what the hardwood fans say it is very difficult to get a consistent dance surface with wood. Body oils, humidity, rosin caking, and temperature can make a hardwood floor a different experience each day. You might have to budget for refinishing as it ages or fails to satisfy, and you can only do this so many times before the flooring gets too thin. I think the most consistent floors actually have no varnish on the top layer, but have been doped and sanded several times. A tiny bit of moisture will change the feel.

I'd strongly consider having a professional dance floor company handle the sub-flooring. I believe that StageStep (800) 523-0960 used to have plans for the do-it-yourselfer - a floating plywood floor on foam blocks.

On the top of this flooring, you'll need a vinyl floor covering that suits the tap and pointe work. I'd focus on the durability and safety issues and not on the volume levels. This is just a guess, but if you wound up with a quiet, safe floor and then hooked up some floor microphones and an amplifier she could bring the house down when she wanted to.

Jen

April 17, 1997

Hi Jenny,

I am a 20 year old college student who has recently been inspired to take ballet. I started classes at a local ballet school about a month ago. So far, I just love to dance, but I have one major problem. I am completely inflexible! Even as a child, I could never touch my toes. It is not because I am overweight, because I am quite thin. My gym teachers would always tell me "you have a short back, so that is why you cannot touch your toes." Could this be true? Also, it is very hard for me to turn out - the furthest I can go is to have my feet 90 degrees from each other. How long do you think it will take me to be able to achieve a nice turn out? Usually I am a quick learner at everything I try, but I feel like it will take me 10 years before I can be slightly good at ballet!

Thanks, Inflexible

Dear Inflexible,

So lets say it does take you 10 years to start getting the hang of ballet. It seems like a long time, for sure. The real question is: "Can you enjoy the journey for its own sake?" Progress might be slow but you'll be getting in great shape, having fun (hopefully), meeting people, tackling challenges -- see what I mean?

There is a very significant mental component to flexibility. You have 20 years of conditioning that has convinced your brain that only a certain, limited range of motion is permissible and safe. Play on the edges of those established flexibility boundaries and the brain will react quickly and involuntarily to protect your body.

If you are in good health and have a normal build then flexibility is just an issue of body training and reprogramming the brain. Lets say that one of your goals is to do the splits. Starting at 20, I wouldn't be surprised if it took you two or three years of regular work to get into and comfortable in a split. I'm not talking about an occasional attempt here and there. This is with a regular, systematic approach that has you isolating hamstrings, quads and so on with a variety of exercises.

Your mind is made up. You believe that you are inflexible. Most of us can't just go buy a brain software upgrade. It takes months and months of really gentle, persistent coaxing to convince the brain that things are going to be different. Say to yourself while you stretch: "This is the new me. Get used to it. You have no choice."

I avoided the turn out issue because it is more difficult to work directly on improving it. To some extent it will improve as your overall flexibility improves. It is also very easy to damage your knees if you work incorrectly. Never, ever turn out to your maximum while your knees are bent. Keep Stretching!

Jen

(Follow-up Aug 16 1997)

Readers,

You might feel some discomfort or pain when stretching. We all have different pain thresholds and there are several ways that improper stretching can cause some real damage. In general, no moves during a stretch should be sudden, you should never tolerate pain at any joint (knee, hip), and the stretch focus should be at the body or bulky part of the muscle you are working. If you have pain at a joint, tendon, or ligament during a stretch you need to immediately make adjustments or gently come out of the stretch.

When people talk about stretching until it hurts you need to understand that they are talking only about the sensation you feel in the body of a muscle on a correctly executed stretch. Pushing to and through other types of pain is just plain dumb, especially if your tolerance is high. If you experience unexpected pain (like at the knee or hip during a split), stop and ask your teacher for help.

Jen

April 17, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I am a 19 year old male who, three years ago, has started dancing and has grown to love it. I have danced with an amusement park for the last three years but really want to take dance as far as possible! I haven't had any technical training, just steps I pick up along the way! I pick up pretty quick but I don't have any training! I have already completed 1 year in University (Engineering) but feel that the longer I spend in university, the more time I waste in becoming a professional dancer. The big thing holding me back is the fact that I pay for everything in my life right now i.e car, insurance, clothes, etc... I want dance training really badly but am at a loss of where to get it! If you know of anyone who wants to take the MOST WILLING male dancer under their wing could you please let me know! Thank you!

Stranded up North

Dear Stranded,

You are in what the marketing types would call a "seller's market." You certainly are not advised to walk away from an engineering degree, but you will find plenty of schools willing to help you finance your dance training. Guys that have the desire and natural ability to dance tend to be in short supply (especially true in ballet) and high demand. As necessary components for both partnering classes and choreography, you'll probably even be able to 'shop around' to find a program that suits you.

The girls tend to be envious, but you really don't even need to wait for scheduled auditions. Call the school or company ahead of time and ask to take a regular class. Well over half of the schools you visit will likely ask you to try out classes for a while, some will offer scholarships on the spot based on the potential they might see in you. Have fun!

Jen

April 8, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I've been dancing for about two years but I still have flat arches. My teacher always tells me to "Point till it hurts," but where exactly is it supposed to hurt? If I take some time to point really hard, I can feel the top part of my foot stretch. More importantly, there is a tendon attached to the big toe which extends through the sole of my foot. When I point with extra effort, this tendon aches as if it were cramping up. Then I have to relax my foot a little because the tendon hurts so much. Is this what the pain is supposed to feel like? I also have a tendency to curl my toes, especially the second toe which is as long as my big toe. How can I remedy this?

Sincerely, Flatfoot

Dear Flatfoot,

A cramped foot isn't what she has in mind. Remember that you are going to need speed -- getting into and recovering from that cramped position will be slow.

Don't think of pointing the toes or curling the foot around the arch -- this will cause cramps and will make the toes curl. Instead, try for a flat line from the top of the pointed foot to the shin. This will move the 'hurt' to the Achilles and the arch near the heel.

Be sure to work on flexibility too, stretching each foot with your hands and over a roller.

Worrying about flat feet isn't a great use of time. If your feet collapse and spread under load they will probably respond very, very slowly to attempts to improve the arch. It is much more productive to strengthen the feet, to improve flexibility, to develop a serviceable point, and to shift your balance to the balls of your feet and away from the heels.

Jen

March 28, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I am fourteen and have lived in Australia all my life and have studied ballet with the same teachers since I was four. My teachers feel that I will be ready to audition for the Australian Ballet School (the school attached to our national ballet company) this year. My problem is that due to my father's job my entire family has to move to New York. My parents have tried to cheer me up by pointing out that there will be many opportunities there for me, but I just can't seem to get over giving up my life long dream. I have tried to convince them to let me stay in Australia, but they feel I am too young. They don't understand how hard it will be for me to start over from scratch. Please help me!

Genevive

Dear Genevive,

If you did audition for the Australian Ballet School, you'd be meeting new people and would be trying to get used to new instructors, right? Suppose you were accepted -- that process of acclimation would only continue. You might know some of the dancers but it would really be a new ballet home for you.

If you move to New York and find a new school, the process is much the same. New faces, new instructors, new studios. You won't confuse New York with Australia, but when the culture shock softens you'll realize that a ballet class with a skilled instructor is a very international experience. Things only get wildly different outside the studio.

Keep working hard and get into the best schools that you can in New York. It is perfectly understandable that you are looking forward to dancing professionally in Australia. Why not view your stay in New York as an extended training opportunity that will give you a great chance to develop your dancing? Then when you go back home to audition in a few years you'll have experience that few of the other girls will have.

Keep an eye on Sondra Forsyth's column NY Dance Scene here on DanceArt.com. It might help you find a school you'd like. Please write me when you get to New York -- I'd love to know what school you settle on.

Jen

March 25, 1997

Hi i am a twenty year old college soph who has danced since age four. i love it more than anything it is basically my life, my room is filled with dance stuff. I have other hobbies and interests too but dance is first. my prob is that i live with my grandparents and my grandpa recently died, we don't have a lot of money now, and i have enough money to pay for the rest of this years dance classes( i do ballet/pointe, jazz, tap, modern and lyrical) but this summer i have to work two jobs so i prob won't have time or money for dance cause i need it for school and i don't know if i can afford lessons next year either. I want to be a professional dancer, i know its to late to do ballet but i want to do tap , jazz or modern. I want to finish school to though in case dance doesn't work out, but i don't wnat to quit dance and be behind. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks, Beth

Dear Beth,

To plan for the rest of college and your first career take a good look at your interests and skills. You don't mention your major. Will it likely form the basis of a strong career for you? Does it interest you? What is the income potential?

Look at your dancing just as hard. Are you at or near professional levels? Do you know companies that would hire you? Do you audition well?

Two other really important factors are your Grandmother and your financial situation. What would happen if you had to start taking care of her? What kind of support does she need from you? Does your dance or academics qualify you for scholarships or financial assistance?

Preparing for a career in dance or in another field can be a full-time job. So can paying for that education. Taking care of family isn't easy either. Set your priorities based on the impact your involvement will have, your interests and responsibilities. You'll make it work!

Jen

March 21, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I am in trouble! I am a first year ballet teacher of 4, 5, and 6 year olds. It is not an easy job. The year started out exciting and fun, and now come March the class has lost all pizazz. The kids and I are bored and discouraged. They actually say things like, "I am bored, is class over yet!" That hurts me to hear. It is also apparent that the parents are catching on. I think they need to be challenged, but I am running out of material. My boss is of no help and panics if I express a problem. I was wondering if you had a few tips, a few steps, and a few good ways to get them across? I am really getting discouraged.

Losing My Smile

Dear Smile Search,

Ms. Jenny went to a pro for help with your question. Please welcome Ms. Stephanie of the Jaffrey-Rindge Dance Program in New Hampshire USA:

First of all, you're not in trouble! You just need some innovative ideas!!! I have the same problem with my 3-4 year olds. Teaching can be difficult because of their short attention span. This can happen to any class right through teens sometimes. You need to change activities frequently. When your class starts to lose interest take a look at what you are working on in class and ask yourself if it is fun for your students! Especially at the younger ages it is necessary to entertain your class in between instructing them in dance lessons. Parents will appreciate a smiling child who loves to come to dance class even if they can't remember all their positions!

I am going to assume that because it is nearing recital time that you may be working on a dance routine. Try not to work on it for more than 1/4 of your class time or until they start to lose interest. Stop as soon as they get that glazed look. Don't wait for complaints. Choreograph as much as possible at home and show them quickly and easily how to do their dance steps. Make sure their dance is fun too! Different schools do things in different ways. Work around what you can and sprinkle your personality into what you do! Be creative!

It's too bad that the director of your program is not of help. She undoubtedly has been in your place before, but perhaps she is not really sure what to do either. Part of your problem is inexperience since you are a new teacher. If you stick with it you will overcome your fears. Remember, kids KNOW when you DON'T KNOW what you are doing so relax and just have fun! Here are a few suggestions for what you might try that has worked for me! Good Luck and please let me know if this helps!

• Buy fun CD's like "Mouse House: Disney's Dance Mixes" or "The Muppet Beach Party" or any other fun music you find in the kids section at your music store! You can use silly music in dance class, not just classical!

• Play Freeze Dance! You play a piece of music (Silly is best!) and give your students guidelines such as: Do something for me with a pointed toe (like kicks), do something with graceful arms or turns, etc. Then offer them a chance at the end to let loose and dance in any way they like. Don't forget to occasionally pause the music and yell "freeze". No one ever is "out" at this game! :)

• Tape down stars on the floor and make a different version of Freeze Dance. When you stop the music you yell out a position or some dance step and your students have to find a star to stand on and do that step!

• Follow the leader is still a blast! My students follow me all around the room as I do skips, runs, leaps, turns, etc. I do crazy steps that make them laugh out loud!

• If class gets too silly sit on the floor and whisper until your students quiet down and come to see what your are doing. Then do an activity that they have to be as quiet as a mouse (who can be most
quiet?) to do. Everyone has to whisper.

• Play soft music and do stretches on the floor with pizazz! My class walks their fingers down their legs and to their toes and tickles their toes! This cracks them up, especially when at the last one you tickle someone elses toes!

• Sometimes I call first position making your feet smile! The kids like this as well. You can call things by their proper names sometimes and be goofy other times.

• Another silly stretch that works is the wiggles. You start with your head and wiggle different things all the way down your body. Your students must try to wiggle only that part of their body and then go on to the next. After doing it a few times, your try to go faster and faster to see who can do them all the fastest!

• End the class on a fun note! Some teachers give out stickers but this can be expensive after a while. I use stamps! Hand stamps are like tatoos and kids love them. Find some cute stamps...a ballerina, dance shoes, teddy bears, fish, animals, hearts, etc. and vary them. Put a stamp on their hands for a job well done!

• Of course you don't want to bribe your dancers but if you love them, let them know! I'm a little kooky. I give out treats on special days. Before the winter holidays I bring in a basket of Hershey's kisses or little holiday candies, for Valentine's Day I bring in a basket of heart-shaped lollypops, and for Easter I make up plastic eggs with jelly beans and 1 or 2 chocolates in each! If you do this remember to include all your students. My oldest students think I am very cool to think of them too!!! Also, throw in a few extra in case one of your students has a little brother or sister in the waiting room! You can do this quite inexpensively.

• Last night I had my top 2 classes (ages 6-13) work together. (Their classes are back to back) They had a 2 hour dance class! It was a blast! They had ballet, then they performed what they are working on for the recital for each other and then a funky jazz class! It was a lot of fun for them to work together. We were loud and boisterous and the kids were all smiling! At the end of class the got to make up combinations across the room! They were all clapping for each other. Little kids and big kids teamed up together!

• Most of all remember that you are all learning together and that some classes have great chemistry and some don't. Do what you can with what you have. Ask your students if they would like to bring in some of their favorite music from home to share!

• Bring in pictures of famous dancers and tell a story about their life to your students. Share personal experiences of your own!

• Use scarves to make skirts, Ariel's hair, the wind, etc.

• Be a kid and think like a kid. Have fun! Good Luck!

Stephanie

March 20, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I'm 13 and have been in ballet for 10 years. Each year we do a recital, spring gala, and a play. In the recital we are doing 1 or 2 dances, in spring gala were doing 2 dances, and the play we are doing is "The Wizard of Oz", I'm Glinda the Good Witch." Do you have any advice on how to remember everything? Please help!

What to do

Dear WTD,

Sit down with a little notebook and assign a bunch of pages to each dance. At the start of each section, write out as much of the dance as you know. Then take the notebook and a pencil to rehearsal and keep them handy. When you are offstage or on break, refine your notes on that dance.

You can then use the notebook before rehearsals and performances to help you focus on what is next. Quickly read the section on the dance you are about to do. This will help you concentrate on the dance. You might not even need to describe every step. Sometimes just a drawing of your positions on the floor will be just enough to remind you. Good luck!

Jen

March 18, 1997

Hi, I picked up dance my freshman year at college and have loved my new language ever since. However, since I am ten years or more behind in my training then most of the girls I dance with I sometimes feel like a complete idiot, especially when I understand the movement but have trouble with the execution of the steps. But when I study modern dance, this problem seems to disappear. How could it be that ballet seems so unnatural to me?

Troubled

Dear Troubled,

You are being too hard on yourself. Ballet is difficult. It is not natural. You have to acquire considerable skill at it before you'll ever really feel like you are dancing. With ballet you learn simple things like tendus early on. Then you learn that the tendu is not simple and that you'll keep learning the tendu for years as your body strengthens and shifts.

Modern also requires a lot of skill. But it is a different type of activity in which the 'pay back' for your investment in the dance form can be more immediate and more frequent. You watch somebody demonstrate a move. You try it. It feels sort of like it looked. The move fits the mood of the music and reinforces the learning. You are encouraged and want more.

Ballet may take more effort from you before you begin to really enjoy it. You might want to tackle it precisely for the challenge of it and for the foundation it will provide. Then again, you can rejoice at discovering modern and focus on it since it seems to fit you.

Jen

March 7, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I have been very proud of the fact that I have the best turnout in my ballet class even though I have only taken ballet for about a year, altogether. Lately, though, my archeds and my calves have been cramping up really painfully! Is there anything I can do?

Cramped

Dear Cramped,

First, make sure that you are getting enough rest. You should be taking one or two days a week off from dance to let your body recover.

Secondly, make sure that your diet is supporting your new activity levels. By 'diet' I don't mean 'weight loss program.' I mean that the food you eat should provide you with enough complex carbohydrates to power your body and brain, and with enough nutrients to keep things working correctly. WATER is included in this. Drink up. More than you think you need.

Here is a quick test you should do frequently to check on your hydration level. Simply look at the palm of your hand and your fingers. Keep your hand and fingers relaxed. You know what your hands look like after spending too much time in the bath or swimming pool? If your internal water level is too low, the skin on your fingers will pucker slightly just like you'd come out of a pool. If you are dehydrated this puckering might be very slight. You want to see your fingers and palm completely filling out the skin on your hands. If you gently pinch the skin on your palm near the base of your thumb and then let go, it should immediately smooth out and not stay puckered.

If you see a little puckering or baggy and loose skin you might not be drinking enough water. Remember that you can drink things like fruit juices, sports drinks, and bottled water if you don't like tap water. Dehydration can cause muscle cramps (and much worse) and you can't count on your body to tell you about it by 'getting thirsty.'

And finally, talk to your teacher. She might be able to point out things about the way you are achieving your turnout that could be contributing to the cramps. Dancers often use muscles incorrectly and have to ask for this kind of help.

Jen

February 20, 1997

Dear Jenny,

Hi! My name is Lynne, and I have been taking dance for 5 years now. It used to be the main focus in my life, but now I want to also play other sports. My dance teacher pushes dance, and seems to think that we should choose dance over everything else. Should I be forced to choose between 2 things that I want to do? Is this fair?

Dear Lynne,

If you want to dance professionally, your teacher is probably just being realistic rather than worrying about being fair. Teachers invest a lot of heart and soul in their students and want to see you be successful.

If your interests shift toward other activities, and you want to stay involved with dance, you'll need to juggle a bit. In fact, the better you get at juggling a variety of interests, the more fascinating your life will be. The key is to really focus on your current activity. When you are at soccer practice (or whatever) be a soccer fanatic. When you dance, live to dance. Your teachers / coaches couldn't ask for anything better.

Jen

February 19, 1997

Dear Jenny,

This is my sixth year dancing, and the first year that I have had many dance-related injuries. I get sprained ankles, pulled backs, sore knees and hips and sprained wrists. Its come to the point where I have to miss class sometimes because I can barily move. 15 year old's shouldnt experience these injuries!!! Other than pain medications, which I am currently on, do you have any advice on how to ease the pain, before, during, and after dance class. Your help is very much appreciated!

Thank you, Julie

Dear Julie,

Sometimes we need to step back from all the things we go through and try to figure out what is causing the pain, rather than how to live with it. Consider everything that might be related. Here are some examples of things to check out.

What kind of a floor are you dancing on? If it is too slick, or too hard (not enough rebound) injuries will be more frequent. I've seen far too many competition teams that have nice studios go 'all out' on concrete or asphalt for a show. These shows can be very frequent for an aggressive, popular team and injuries are common. It is very irresponsible for organizers to put dancers on dangerous flooring. Remember that some injuries will be career-limiting or career-terminating. Saying 'NO!' when you are at excessive risk of injury will be less of a career gamble than a bad injury will be. Don't fall into the trap of "just don't dance full-out since we are on asphalt." The injuries will be more likely to occur on a turn rather than on a jump since your feet will grab the floor differently.

Lots of sprains and pulls can mean that you are pushing too hard, or are being pushed too hard. Make sure that you aren't working at a level that is over your head. Also consider doing other forms of strength training to support your dancing. Look for professional help - maybe somebody in physical therapy with a knowledge of dance injuries. There are plenty of strengthening exercises that can help you avoid back, ankle, knee, hip, and wrist injuries. But you need help because it is far too easy to further aggravate injuries that could have an 'over use' element to them.

Finally, do what your body is suggesting. Regularly take time off. Try to veg one or two days a week to let your body rest and recover from all the hard work.

Jen

February 11, 1997

Dear Jenny,

Just wanted to know what purposes do guys going on pointe serve? and what kind of pointe shoes will you recommend for an adult male starting out on pointe work

regards, wanna know

Dear Wanna Know Painful Toe,

Well, the motivation will vary. Pointe does require considerable strength and flexibility that can translate into an improved demi pointe. So some guys try it for a form of strength training. Some like the concept and the grace and want that component of dance available to them.

At the same time guys are generally heavier and thus more prone to injury on pointe. A shoe that has been properly fitted is the only real consideration for a beginner. Actually, if this is just a passing interest, you might be better off with a pair of dance sneakers with toe boxes. That way you could continue to use the shoes if your interests change.

Jen

February 10, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I am 11 years old and have been taking dance, with my main focus being ballet, since I was three. I love ballet and know that dance will always be the main focus in my life. I have been on pointe for two years now. Because my family has moved, I have been at my present school for only one year and have had to change from Ceccheti to Royal Ballet technique. I am encountering a problem I have not had before: my teacher tends to look at my size and age instead of my ability. The school I came from was very competitive and I felt I was always being pushed to new levels (I liked that). My present school seems to move very slowly. Because I am a little small for my age, my teacher tends to forget about my abilities. Most of the girls in my class started dance late and are not as serious about it as I am. I do not wish to appear to brag, but it is obvious to all (including the girls) that my ability is farther advanced than theirs. I know the credit for this is due to the good teachers I had early on and my exposure to many different instructors. Visiting workshop teachers always cast me in solo spots for their works, but my regular teacher never commends me on my ability or advances me to a class where the girls are at the same ability of technique (with 13&14 year olds). She keeps saying that I am "too young" for that class. I feel frustrated and feel she is impeding my long term goals, but at the same time I recognize that her ballet training is the best offered in my area. I have tried to talk to her, but her mind is set. I'm so discouraged. What can I do?

Thanks, "Little" Chelsea

Chelsea,

Bummer. Quite the pickle you are in. On being a little small for your age, take heart. This will tend to encourage you to dance 'bigger.' Small dancers often learn to travel more when they move, and they have a speed advantage.

You say this class offers the best training in your area. Do you feel this way because of popular opinion or an established reputation that the teacher has? Or have you experienced the other training options in your area? Consider really looking around for a class you would be happy with.

Spending a few more years waiting for the other girls to catch up might destroy this nice advantage your age gives you. At the same time, you are on point quite early. We can only hope that your former school knew what they were doing.

If you find another teacher you'd be happy with for a while, talk to your current teacher about the school you are considering. Tell her you found a class that is suitably challenging for you -- much like her 13/14. Let her know that you want to take a few days a week there. Her tune will either change immediately or you'll have the opportunity to keep one foot in each studio for a while to see what works best for you. Let us know what happens - good luck!

Jen

February 2, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I'm fourteen years old. I have just started taking ballet regularly, though I've been going to classes on and off since I was six. My teacher thinks I might be ready to go on pointe, but my mother (who did dance once upon a time) disagrees. She says I should take classes steadily for at least two years. What's your opinion?

Eager to Pointe

Dear Eager,

I'm concerned about your teacher 'thinking' rather than 'knowing' if you are ready. Like your mom, I'd rather be conservative when it comes to your health and make sure you are strong enough for it.

Here is something you can do. Check out www.capezio.com and find their article on young dancers beginning pointe. Print the article and give it to your mom. The information might change her mind, or it could change your teacher's mind about when you should start.

Jen

February 1, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I have been dancing for 11 years now, and I am currently 15. Dance has pretty much been the center of my life. The first years I didn't really think about doing anything with dance, but the past couple of years I've decided that this is what I wanna do with the rest of my life. One of my biggest problems is location. I live in kansas where not to many dance oppurtunites come around and I read about how all these famous dancers got started by auditioning at all these places in New York, and spending either their high school or summertime there. But my mom isn't to thrilled with that idea. An suggestions on getting started?

Thanks, Leslie

Dear Leslie,

You seem to understand that the best instruction and best schools will improve your chances of success. So your problems are getting noticed by the schools, getting accepted, and getting your mom to support you.

Start looking for the summer programs which won't have you away from home for an extended period. Look for programs that are in cities where other family members live because this might make your mom happier.

Many of the summer programs are very structured and very safe - providing after-class activities and stuff. Check current issues of Dance Magazine for the summer program ads - there are lots of options out there.

If you can't travel to the auditions many schools will gladly take an audition video tape as your entry. With your mom's permission try to audition in person or by tape to the schools you are really interested in as an experiment. If you are accepted, your mom might be so proud she'd let you go.

Let me know how it works out for you! All the best!

Jen

January 27, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I just got on pointe, in ballet, and I am trying hard to break in my arch. I am wearing a Beginning Capezio shoe. My dance teacher has given some exercises (such as going from flat to pointe many times and going from flat, to demi-pointe, to pointe in each foot position.) I was wondering if you possibly knew some bar or floor exercises that could help me. Please!

Sincerely, Just Started

Dear Starting Up,

Congratulations on starting pointe! Since you are so new to pointe I'm going to suggest that you just follow your teacher's exercises.

There are a few things happening here. You are going to be building calf and foot strength and this takes time and hard work. You are also going to be improving the flexibility of your feet. Your teacher's exercises are probably perfect for you at this time. Just understand that you can't rush the process and be safe about it.

Shoes, not your feet (hopefully), break in with use. It'll take some time before you figure out what you like in a shoe. Your needs will change as your feet and strength change so don't expect to settle on the 'perfect' shoe for quite some time. Each pair you buy really should be professionally fitted.

Have fun and best of luck!

Jen

January 12, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I am 14 years old and one of my dreams is to be a professional dancer or a teacher. The problem is that where I live, there is only one dance studio that teaches tap, ballet, and jazz dancing. We only have practice once a week for an hour, so we don't spend much time on ballet dancing. I've been dancing since I was 8 years old, and I don't feel like I have enough practice time, and when I am practicing, it's not challenging enough for me. What should I do? And is there any way I could somehow teach myself what I want to learn?

[Unsigned]

Dear Home Study,

This is one of the most difficult questions you could ask. The answer is easy, telling you isn't. Some forms of dance can be self-taught but ballet is not one of them.

If you can't commute to school in a neighboring town, or can't encourage your school to get serious about ballet you are pretty stuck. At your age you should be in class 3 to 6 days a week if you are looking to build a career as a dancer.

The problem is fixable, but the solutions are extreme. First, you could try running a classified ad to see if you can locate any retired dancers or teachers. You might be able to take a private class from them or even help start up a class for other area kids. And finally, maybe your parents are ready for a change and this would help them to decide on relocating to a different area.

Jen

January 7, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I am a high school senior about to make a very important decision. COLLEGE!! I have auditioned for a few colleges for dance scholarships. However it is too soon to tell if I got any scholarships. My problem is that I'm too overweight to become a dancer. My technique is nice, overall I'm a strong dancer. I'm just wondering if it is worth my time to major in dance if I won't use it in a career. I have thought of alternatives other than dancing, but I am not interested in anything other than that. Of course I really love to dance. I wouldn't want to quit. Is it wise to invest my money and time to major in dance? Or might it be better to just take classes somewhere?

Jenny W.

Dear Jenny W.,

Well, unless you want to dance, teach or choreograph, a dance degree won't really be a good investment. Basically after four years you'd really want a degree that would help you establish a career.

It can be really tough for dancers to find other interests. Dance often requires so much of our attention that other interests never have the opportunity to be explored or developed. This would be a really good time for you to start expanding your horizons.

You are probably overlooking several interests that would form interesting careers. Spend some time dreaming and researching. Figure out what it is about dance that you like. You could focus on interesting components and wind up moving from costumes to fashion design, from lighting to engineering, from choreography to staging fights for movies, from rehab to medicine, from selling tickets to managing a dance company or theater.

Look at everything you like to do. Even if you enjoy shopping and would normally not think about it again - you might be able to sink your teeth into marketing, product design, advertising, retail management, etc.. It'll just take some time to figure out where you want to go. Best of luck!

Jen

January 1, 1997

Dear Jenny,

I trained for 11 months with the most wonderful teacher. Ballet was so enjoyable. After the spring performance he was fired. I took the summer off and now I am taking class at a community college. Ballet hasn't been as enjoyable and I am not improving as much or as quickly as I would like. I am weary at the idea of joining a new company, because the one I have in mind the girls are a great deal better than me and I am awfully shy. I am being pressured by my parents, because they want me to fulfill my dream to be a professional dancer. I am about to quit (not willingly) because I am so distraught. Any ideas?

Thanks for the ear, K.M.

Dear K.M.,

I'll bet you didn't expect to hear about a math class when you wrote! Anyways - I had a class that I really loved and it turned out that what I liked was a really well taught class. People that are really good at teaching and that are really interested in the subject can do wonders for a class. It took me a while after that class to realize that my interest level was not sustainable outside of that classroom. It happens.

Your interest in ballet seems much bigger than what that single instructor brought to the classroom for you. Your discussion of the new company seems like it just might be exactly what you need to start improving rapidly. Being surrounded by great dancers and tough teachers is intimidating. But the way I look at it -- you have a room full of people to model your dancing after, you have a room full of people that are expecting you to do your best, you have a room full of people willing to help, and you have a room full of people that will grow to respect what you achieve with them over the years. You'll get better much faster in this environment than if you were cruising at the top of a slower class.

The trick is to drop that word 'shy' from your vocabulary. Don't focus on your feelings or on what others might think - if that company welcomes you then you've passed all the tests you'll need to worry about for a while. Somebody believes you have potential and your job is to show them how completely right they were. As always - the harder you work and the more you interact with the instructors the better the classes will become for you.

So get downstage, listen up, ask questions, and kick some tutu girl!

Jen

P.S. Happy New Year!

December 26, 1996

Dear Jenny,

I have a lot of questions relating to dance and I hope that you can help me answer some of them.

1. I'm 14 and I started dance when I was 11 and because of that, I'm not half as good as anyone else my age. I try really hard and dance is on my mind all the time, do you have any ideas on how I could get better in a limited amount of time? Plus, my mom will only let me dance for 5 hours a week, which to me is not enough. My studio goes to alot of competitions and my goal is to have a solo to compete with. The trouble is, most soloists have been dancing for at least 10 years.

2. My mom thinks that dance is a complete waste of money and time, how can I convince her that it isn't?

3.During really hard dance classes, I get completly out of breath, so much that I get dizzy and sometimes fall. Are there any exercises you could give me to help with my breathing and lung capacity?

Thank you so much for helping me, Saira

Dear Saira,

The fastest way to get better is to increase the amount of studio and class time you have every week - but that is exactly what you were telling me in your letter! If you can't be in the studio, studying music can really benefit your dancing. The more you understand about music, the better you will be able to dance to it. And finally, studying performance video tapes is a great way to learn more about technique, about particular dances, and about stage presence.

Your mom sounds very practical. Make sure that she isn't really complaining about your school work suffering from all the dance, or about driving or waiting for you. As always, I'll suggest working out carpooling arrangements with other dancers.

What would you do if you didn't take dance classes? Most of America spends too many hours in front of the television. TV doesn't keep your body in shape and does not provide you with marketable skills.

Make sure that your school work is handled so your mom is not forced into a 'dance or homework' decision. If your homework is handled, if you aren't studying to be a couch potato when you grow up, if the medical schools won't accept you at 14, if working at fast-food restaurants isn't your thing, if being a teenaged mom doesn't excite you, and if street gangs have lost all their appeal then I can't think of a better place for you to be than in a dance class.

Your last question has me concerned. Are you sure the problem is with your breathing? If you don't REALLY know, go see a doctor. They can test you on a tread mill and see if anything unusual is happening. The dizzy spells and fainting could actually be from low blood pressure or a problem with blood sugar levels, among other things. You really need to find out because you don't want to be injured. I really flake out if I can't eat a snack after about one and a half hours of class.

If you get a clean bill of health, do make sure that when you start to get winded that you are not curling forward or resting with your hands on your knees. It is far better to wait for the next exercise with your hands clasped behind your back because it makes it easier for you to breathe.

Let me know what you find out! All the best!

Jen

December 24, 1996

Dear Jenny,

I can't seem to manage a decent fifth postition. I have a hard time even managing to turn my feet out in that position, and if I do manage it, I am so unsteady I run the risk of falling over. Any suggestions?

Tough Position

Dear Wobbly Fifth,

First realize that fifth position doesn't come naturally for most of us. It has to be achieved over time as your strength and flexibility improve. If you are working correctly at bar, over the coming months and years this position will tighten up and become incredibly stable for you.

Don't try so hard to achieve that perfect fifth position while you are working in class. The unsteadiness you feel will tend to throw so much of the body out of alignment that the rest of your exercise will suffer. If you completely relax you won't make any progress, so the trick is to find that point where you are working harder than yesterday, but only up to a manageable level of instability.

Try this exercise. Facing the bar, stand in a comfortable fifth with the right leg in back. Both legs should be completely straight. Don't worry about appearances or turnout - just get to the tightest fifth position you can without bending the knees and without turning out the feet at the knees.

First, work with just the back leg. You are going to repeatedly tighten and relax your fifth by slightly shifting your weight to the front foot's ball and rotating the back leg's heel forward. Your heel will probably move less than an inch. Tighten and relax 16 times, then work the front leg by shifting weight to the back ball and rotate the front toes back. The key is to keep the legs completely straight. Then put the left leg back and start again.

This is just one of the many exercises you can do to improve your fifth. Your teacher probably has some great ones - just ask!

Jen

December 24, 1996

Dear Jenny,

I have been dancing on and off for most of my life, and have never been able to turn. I listen intently when teachers discuss placement, using the head, pushing from two feet etc. and do my best to do all this. What eludes me is how to actually make my body TURN. How does one spin? There must be some science to it somewhere. Since I take intermediate and advanced ballet classes, with some really good dancers, I'd love to be able to do double pirouettes, too. Please help me.

Thanks, Lesley

Dear Lesley,

I figured that the best way to help you with your turns would be to pass your letter on to the best turner I know. He's helped me quite a bit and also happens to write for this web site. Mr. Noa was regularly getting five and six clean turns while demonstrating for our class and making many of us pretty green with envy. They are possible! He touches on your question in January's article and promises more later. Have fun!

Jen