December brings twinkling lights, family traditions, and a well-earned Winter Break for our dancers. While rest is important, this time away from the studio doesn’t have to mean losing the strength, flexibility, and technique your dancer has worked so hard to build this season.
The great news? Keeping dance muscles active over break can be simple, fun, and flexible—fitting easily into holiday schedules and cozy winter days at home. Here are 7 dancer-approved ways to stay strong, stretched, and stage-ready until classes resume.
1. Join APA’s Exclusive Winter Break Masterclass — Featuring a Performer from Hamilton!
We’re thrilled to announce a special, one-day masterclass taught by a professional performer from the hit Broadway musical Hamilton!
This is a rare opportunity to learn from a world-class artist, expand performance quality, and dive into the style of one of Broadway’s most iconic shows.
– Perfect for intermediate and advanced dancers
-A chance to train, be inspired, and stay connected with the APA community
-The ultimate way to kick off the new year with motivation
Parents—be on the lookout for registration details. Spots will be limited!
2. Create a 10-Minute Holiday Stretch Routine
Flexibility is one of the first things dancers lose without regular training—but it’s also the easiest to maintain. A simple daily stretch routine can include:
- Hamstring stretch (right, left, center)
- Hip flexor lunge
- Butterfly stretch
- Straddle fold
- Calf stretch against a wall
- Back bend or bridge (for advanced dancers)
Put on holiday music, wear a holiday facemask, and make it a relaxing nightly ritual.
3. Keep Technique Sharp With Mini Strength Circuits
Just 5–8 minutes of conditioning helps dancers retain control and stability. Try this quick at-home circuit:
30 seconds each:
- Plank
- Calf raises (on a step if possible)
- Wall sit
- Sautés (light jumps)
- Side leg lifts (both sides)
Repeat once or twice.
This keeps turnout muscles active and legs strong for January classes.
4. Practice Musicality With Holiday Dance Combos
Turn on your favorite seasonal playlist and create short combos or improv sessions.
This builds:
- Timing
- Performance quality
- Creativity
- Confidence
Encourage younger dancers to show their family their “Holiday Routine of the Day”—it keeps them active and proud of their progress.
5. Take a One-Day Workshop or Online Class
Winter Break is a fantastic time for dancers to explore new styles:
- Ballet workshops
- Jazz or hip hop intensives
- Turns & Leaps clinics
- Virtual masterclasses can be found with just the click of a button!
Even one focused day of training helps dancers maintain technique and challenge their bodies in new ways.
6. Stay Active With Cross-Training Fun
Dance muscles love variety! Try activities that support strength, flexibility, and endurance:
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Ice skating (Perfect for the
- Swimming
- Resistance band workouts
- Light jogging or walk-run intervals
These options keep your dancer’s body moving while giving their brain a healthy, refreshing break from routines.
Winter Break is a time to rest, recharge, and reconnect with family—but it’s also a wonderful opportunity for dancers to continue building the strength and flexibility they’ve gained this fall. Just 10–20 minutes a day can make all the difference when classes resume.
We can’t wait to see our dancers return in January even stronger, more focused, and inspired—especially after our exciting Hamilton Masterclass!