Acrobatics can add that special spice to your dance routine and it is sure to get the audience’s attention. But tumble the wrong way and you risk serious injury. This is where proper technique comes in.
 
“I’ve seen too many dancers with compression injuries, ACL tears and serious sprains,” says Everett Woods, founder and coach at Core Training Gymnastics Centre in Richmond Hill, “Many dancers don’t anticipate the pressure of the landings on the dance floor.” Woods explains that having the ability to create power while performing the skills and to absorb energy during landings is important. Not to mention having spatial awareness to see the point of contact – where their hands and feet belong.   
 
One of the most desired and difficult moves for our dancers is the aerial (essentially a cartwheel in the air), where dancers have to build enough drive to lift off the ground while thrusting their back leg up over their bodies and pushing through their toes on the front. And they have to do it with style. It’s no small task. First they have to overcome the fear of falling face first on the hard ground. Then they need the coordination and physical preparedness to see it through. And finally, there’s the artistry to think about.
 
Once dancers can master the right technique, they’ll start seeing benefits all around. “Our students have said that their tumbling & core training has actually made them better dancers, cheerleaders and skaters. They strengthened the right muscles and worked on controlling their centre, which now helps them jump much higher than before.” While tumbling alone won’t make up for poor dance technique, it can sure give you the ‘wow’ factor.
 
Contact Core Training Gymnastics Centre for information on our Acro Tumbling Classes for dancers, cheerleaders and skaters.

Your brain is 2% of your body weight yet uses 20% of the energy of your body.
Children’s brain health and emotional health affects every decision they make every moment of every day. When our children’s brains are nourished with whole foods they function at a very high level.

Nutrition is more important than we think when it comes to your child performing better at school and life. Below are some healthy foods to assist in your child’s brain growth, brain function, memory and concentration.

1. Alaskan Salmon 
Fatty fish like salmon are an excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acids.  DHA and EPA are both found if fatty fish are essential for brain growth and function – especially DHA. The best sources of fatty fish that are high in omega-3’s oils are salmon, mackerel, anchovies and sardines. When purchasing fish in tins limit your amount and purchase in the health section of the store.  When choosing tuna look for “skypjack” as opposed to “albacore” which has more mercury.
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Lunch Idea: Instead of tuna sandwiches make salmon and mix with “real” mayonnaise, plain yogurt or avocados.  Add organic raisins, chopped celery and carrots. A wonderfully healthy bread is “Silver Hills” Squirrely.  It is sprouted, organic and children love the taste.  Always choose a bread that has at least 4 – 5 grams of fiber per slice.
 

How important is protein in our daily diet?
Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are called the “macronutrients.” Carbohydrates fuel our bodies, fats nourish our hormone production and nervous system and protein is used in every single cell in our body.  Protein is critical for repairing and building muscle mass, supporting neurological and immune function, aiding in digestion, helping to balance hormones naturally and keeping our mood upbeat.
 
How much protein do athletes need?