Strengthening

Don't forget about strengthening the muscles used when dancing. This should be done after stretching, before going across the floor.

1. Abs- Do a few minutes of crunches, varying position. Start with legs bent and feet on floor. Other positions could include legs straight up in air, legs flat on ground, or legs bent with feet pointing toward ceiling. Also, crunch right and left to work the side of the abs. Sit-ups or V-ups can also be done after crunching. V-ups are done by laying flat on the ground and then bringing feet and hands together in the air keeping the body straight.
   
2. Push ups- Don't spend too much time on these. Ten to fifteen regular push ups will do fine. Another arm strenthening exercise is to start in a table top position and bend arms while keeping the rest of the body in line.