Balancing Holiday Breaks and Dance Practice: Tips for Staying in Rhythm

The holiday season is a special time, filled with family gatherings, travel plans, and a well-deserved break from the normal routine. But for dancers, a long pause can sometimes make returning to class feel a little tougher. Muscles tighten, stamina dips, and choreography might feel just a bit out of reach.

At the Dance Academy of Virginia, we believe the holidays should bring rest and rhythm. With a little balance, your dancer can stay connected to their craft without feeling pressured to “train nonstop.” Here are a few ways to make the most of the season - keeping the joy of dance alive while still soaking in all the festivities.

Schedule “mini moments” of movement

The beauty of dance is that you can do it anywhere. Instead of long practice sessions, encourage your dancer to move a little every day - five minutes of stretching in the morning, practicing turns in the hallway, or improvising a short combo to their favorite holiday song.

Think of it as movement snacks rather than full meals. These short bursts keep muscles warm, improve coordination, and make the return to class smoother.

Make it fun, not forced

This time of year is about joy, connection, and creativity. Let that spirit spill into your dancer’s practice. Try making it festive; create a holiday dance video with siblings or friends, choreograph to a favorite holiday tune, or perform a mini “living room showcase” for family.

When dance feels fun and lighthearted, motivation happens naturally and your dancer stays in touch with what they love most: expression through movement.

Stretch and strengthen

Even if your dancer takes a short break from choreography, simple conditioning exercises can go a long way. Encourage them to stretch daily or add gentle core work into their routine. Try:

• A 30-second plank challenge

• Gentle hamstring and calf stretches

• Balancing on one leg while brushing teeth (hello, stability!)

Keeping flexibility and strength up through the holidays helps prevent injury once classes resume.

Stay inspired

The holidays are a great time to watch dance as well as practice it. Many dance companies, like The Nutcracker or holiday-themed performances, stream shows online or perform locally. Watching professional dancers can reignite passion and spark new creative ideas.

Even something as simple as scrolling through past recital videos or rehearsing a favorite routine can keep the spirit alive.

Balance body and mind

Rest is an essential part of being a dancer. Overtraining or stressing about missed practice can lead to burnout. Encourage your dancer to get enough sleep, hydrate, and enjoy time with loved ones. A healthy, happy dancer comes back refreshed and ready to grow.

If they’re itching to move but need variety, try low-impact activities like ice skating, yoga, or swimming - great ways to stay active while still resting the mind.

Set small goals for the new year

As the year wraps up, it’s a great time to reflect and set intentions. Ask your dancer:

• What new skill do you want to learn next semester?

• Which class made you feel most confident this year?

• What part of dance brings you the most joy?

A few thoughtful goals can reignite purpose and excitement for the next session at DAV.

Keeping the rhythm—your way

Every dancer’s balance looks different. Some might crave movement daily, while others need a true reset before stepping back into the studio. Either way, the key is maintaining a connection.

At Dance Academy of Virginia, we’re proud to nurture dancers who not only excel in skill but also embrace balance and wellness. As we head into the holidays, remember: taking time to rest isn’t falling behind, it’s recharging for all the beautiful movement to come.

From our DAV family to yours, happy holidays - keep shining, keep smiling, and keep dancing (even if it’s just in your living room!).