To use tricks in dance routines or not?

As a dance mum and adjudicator, I've definitely witnessed my fair share of tricks being used in dance routines. And let me tell you, while they can add some extra pizzazz to a performance they can also be a bit of a double-edged sword.

On one hand, tricks can be a great way to showcase a dancer's strength and agility, and the other hand, tricks can also be risky. If a dancer isn't properly trained or doesn't execute a trick correctly, it can result in an injury or a less-than-stellar performance. And let's be honest, nobody wants either of those things to happen.

So, should you use tricks in dance routines?

It's definitely a fine line to walk when it comes to using tricks in dance routines. It's important to strike a balance between showcasing technical ability and maintaining the integrity of the dance style.

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of asking your dance teacher to add more and more impressive tricks to a routine, but it's important to remember that dance is about more than just acrobatics. It's about music, movement, and emotion.

If a dance routine starts to feel more like a rhythmic gymnastics routine, with tricks taking center stage and the actual dancing taking a back seat, it can lose its impact and authenticity.

It's also important to keep in mind that under 12 year old bodies are still developing, and as a result, they may not be ready for the physical demands of certain tricks.

While it's not uncommon for dancers of all ages to experience some aches and pains, it's important to be mindful of the potential for long-term damage, especially in younger dancers. Mums take note!

It's generally not recommended to include tricks that put a lot of strain on growing bodies, such as back handsprings or aerial flips, as they can potentially cause damage to bones and joints that are still developing.

Instead, it's often safer to stick to less risky tricks, such as pirouettes or leaps, or to focus on more traditional dance techniques.

Of course, every dancer is different, and it's important to consult with a dance instructor or a medical professional if you have concerns about a specific trick or dance move. The safety and well-being of the dancer should always be the top priority.

Use tricks wisely - If you're unsure about a dance trick or have concerns about its impact on your dance kids body, it's always a good idea to discuss it with the choreographer no one wants their child in weekly physio sessions at 10 years old correcting bad backs or having hip and knee replacements at 16 years old.