International Dance Day was founded by the Dance Committee of International Theater Institute in 1982 as a way to promote the art of dance around the world. Since then, people use this day and the hashtag #InternationalDanceDay to highlight the amazing diversity and talent of dancers all over the world.
Dance isn’t just fun, it is also a great exercise that will make you stronger and help with balance and coordination. In honor of International Dance Day, we interviewed our very own fitness specialist and professional dancer Maggie Priore. Take a look at how dance has influenced her personal training career.
How has dance played a role in your personal training career?
I began my career in fitness through dance. Having a dance background taught me the importance of proper stretching, taking care of the body, using the core, and having the right form for exercises. Dancers have to be very aware of their bodies.
When I’m with a client, I am aware of his or her body and form. Different people have different body compositions, previous injuries, and different fitness needs. Everyone has to adjust to their bodies and my dance education made me more aware of this. I want my clients to be as aware of their bodies as a dancer so they are healthy for many years to come.
How do you incorporate dance in your fitness sessions?
The top three things I focus on with my clients is flexibility, form and core because those are all vital to keeping our bodies healthy for the long run.
Flexibility
Practicing flexibility prevents injuries, helps with posture, and makes day to day activities less taxing.
Form
Proper form is essential to getting the most out of your workout and also prevents injuries. Dance involves precise form, posture, and accurate spine and foot placement.
Core
You have to keep an active core in almost every exercise you do, just like in dance.
Maggie is a certified personal trainer in Chicago, IL. Contact her today to schedule a complimentary introductory session. If you are looking to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your overall quality of life, a RightFit Personal Trainer will help you set and achieve your health and fitness goals.