I have received a lot of inquiries lately about Diet particularly for Ballet Dancers. The trend these days is not to look super thin, rather to be muscularly lean. Here are a few tips to get you in tip top shape before the 2009/2010 season begins!

1. Don’t use the word Diet. A better term that I use with my clients is “Meal Plan.” When we hear the word diet we automatically think of deprivation. Really, you shouldn’t have to deprive yourself of anything you like. You should, however, plan your meals out thoroughly so that you can have that favorite snack you crave once or twice per week. In moderation, of course.
2. Do not cut out Carbohydrates. The worst thing that a dancer can do is get on a low-carb/hi-protein diet. If you are eating primarily protein to lose weight as a dancer, you will have absolutely no energy. Stick with a nice carb to protein ratio.
3. Stay Hydrated. You should be drinking an electrolyte enhanced beverage during and after Ballet class or rehearsal. This will ensure you have enough glucose in the system and the energy supply to keep pushing in rehearsal.
4. Low on Iron? For female dancers, during that time of the month, we sometimes get low on Iron. This is from the blood loss during menstruation. Feeling lethargic, numb, and a bit queezy? Low Iron levels may be the case.
5. Don’t skip out on lunch. I know a lot of dancers who skip lunch in between rehearsals. This is the wrong thing to do! You need to refuel your body on your lunch break to get ready for the afternoon’s vigorous rehearsal schedule!

I hope these tips will you out during the 2009/2010 Season. Of course always consult with a physician or nutritionist before starting any type of diet plan.

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