As things are slowly opening up in the country, so are dance studios and in-person classes. While it is exciting to go back in person, feel the energy of others dancing with you and having corrections in-person, it can be an adjustment after dancing from home for so long. Here are some things that you should watch out for before going to offline class.
- Make sure that you’ve got both doses of the vaccine before going back to the studio.
- Check with the studio/instructor about safety protocols that will be followed before, after and during the class. You could also confirm whether they will only be allowing those who have received at least one dose of the vaccine into the space.
- Remember that it's okay if you're not where you used to be.
- It will be very exciting to see friends and dance colleagues in person again, but do observe social distancing. Try not to hug anyone or get too close to them.
- Try and keep your mask on for as long as possible. Of course, it is difficult dancing with a mask but you could keep it on while dancing as a group.
- Avoid touching your face. It's tough, we know! But carry a towel and try not to leave it on the floor.
- Carry a bottle of water and sanitiser. You're going to need both in your offline classes! Make sure to keep yourself hydrated through the class and after to reduce muscle soreness and dehydration.
- Make sure to warm up very well. Mobilise your joints and get your heart rate up before class starts so that you can get the most out of the class.
- You might be more tired and sore than you expect since you will be going back after a while. So be prepared for that and make sure you stretch really really well before you leave the studio.
- As a teacher, be more patient with yourself as well as your students, and modify the syllabus to ease students into offline classes.
- Do not miss classes. Since most studios are allowing only a fixed number of students, avoid missing classes because you might be taking a slot away from someone else who may not have missed the class! If you do have to miss a class, make sure you inform the instructor/studio well in advance.
- If you own a studio and are hosting classes, make sure to keep a check on the number of students coming to the class (especially for drop in classes) and try to insist on pre-registrations.
