"IDEAL" Weight, Myth NOT Fact!

The number on the scale has nothing to do with dancing. Striving for unrealistic low weight while dancing which builds muscle is unrealistic. Not going to happen. The more you attempt to have low weight will only deter your love for dance. When you engage in strength training activities like dance, your weight will naturally be a little higher. It is impossible to build strength while dancing. Muscle weighs more than fat. The number on the scale has nothing to do with your dancing. Body shape and size are very much apparent in the dance art form. Do not let it dictate you. Be realistic.

When food is used only for achieving weight goals and you will lose the experience of eating delicious food. Body fat regulates hormones which support the brain health, skin elasticity, and bone strength. Despite these realities. Yes, the scale offers a measurable outcome. But, it is unhealthy and not a positive solution. The body is wired to survive famine to protect genetically a predetermined weight. So, what is the correct weight for a dancer? A healthy weight is one that can be maintained without dieting. It fuels performance and allows for ALL foods.

If you are struggling with pressure from a director etc to lose weight, seek help from a qualified source like a registered dietician nutritionist who specializes in working with dancers. They will help you make more balanced choices. Today's demanding choreography requires strength and endurance, both are dependent on a strong body and healthy mind. An under fueled dancer on the other hand is drained physically and mentally and at risk of injury. The number on the scale has no connection with a dancer's talent of drive.

Put It Into Practice

  1. Ditch The Mirrors: Try taking a break from constantly assessing yourself in the mirrors in class. Think of the mirrors as a tool to rehearse your relationship with your audience rather than always scrutinizing yourself.

  2. Drown Out The Noise: Never mind the comments. No one's opinion is as valuable as your own. You need encouragement, give it to yourself without the chatter on the periphery.

  3. Do Not Forget Your Strengths: The best dancers are not acknowledged for how much they weigh.Appreciate what your body brings to the floor.

  4. Talk About It: Acknowledge that you need help with your confidence, and that you are not alone when it comes to body insecurities. Normalize healthy conversations about self-image with your peers etc. This can help insecurity from turning into something more harmful. You are not alone.




Morwenna Assaf = Author, Choreographer & Educator
Walid Assaf = Percussionist, & Educator https://ArtDanceAcademy.webs.com
Art/Dance Academy, USA 760-715-2276 ArabiDanseAcademie@sbcglobal.net



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