1.2 The warm up

The importance of an effective warm up to prepare the body for physical exertion cannot be emphasised enough.

Warm-up activities for dance should:

• mobilise the joints;

• increase the internal temperature of the body;

• increase the heart rate and blood flow to the muscles;

• make the muscles warm and pliable;

• increase the range of movement around the joints;

• increase the speed of transmission of nerve impulses;

• prepare the mind, as well as the body, by focusing on oneself.