Thursday, April 29, is International Dance Day - a special day to celebrate and raise awareness for the art of dance.
International Dance Day was founded in 1982 by the Dance Committee of ITI (International Theatre Institute) in honor of the birthday (April 29th) of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727-1810), creator of modern ballet. Each year the ITI selects an outstanding choreographer or dancer to deliver a message which is translated into various languages and shared around the world.
According to the ITI, the goals of International Dance Day are:
- To promote all forms of dance.
- To provide a way for members of the dance community to get involved in raising awareness for the value of this important fine art.
- To encourage support for the dance community and its work.
- To enjoy dance in all its forms.
- To share the joy of dance with others.
One doesn’t have to be a professional dancer or choreographer to participate in the celebration! And just to prove it, we’re sharing some of our favorite videos that we hope will inspire you to get your groove on too... even if you think you have two left feet!
Safety First! For your safety and wellbeing, be sure to consult a medical professional before starting any new exercise routine.
Ready to get the party started?
Check out these 7 fun ways to get your groove on!
1. Bounce back after a long, stressful day at work
This 15-minute dance workout by PopSugar is sure to put the spring back in your step.
2. Experience dances from other cultures
You might enjoy the tribal vibes of this 5-minute tutorial on African moves by the Kennedy Education Center or the smooth, sensual moves of this 5-minute Brazilian Samba tutorial by Sambaliscious. If delicately graceful is more your style, check out this 3-minute Hula tutorial by HowCast or this 25-minute bellydance tutorial by Leilah Isaac.
3. Be free to express your own creativity with interpretive moves
Check out these fun and easy workouts by Body Groove:
4. Get in on the latest dance crazes
Guys and girls can both join in on the fun with this 10-minute TikTok dance tutorial by Harrison that teaches three of the hottest, must-know TikTok dances.
If hip hop is something that interests you, this hip hop tutorial by MihranTV might be a perfect place to start.
5. Learn the moves inspired by one of your favorite artists
Maybe you’d like to learn some Beyonce moves from this 8.5-minute tutorial by WorkItJanet for “Crazy In Love.“
Here’s a funky, fun, 10-minute routine for the guys who love Finesse by Bruno Mars, featuring Cardi B thanks to Matt Steffanina.
6. Pair up with your partner for more fun
Want something fun you can do as a couple that will make you the envy of everyone on the dance floor? This East Coast Swing tutorial by Passion4dancing may be right up your alley!
7. Find something that works for your age, abilities, and fitness level
Just about everyone can join in on the fun!
Looking for some easy, low-impact moves that are perfect for absolute beginners or seniors? Check out this video from ZDancerLiz.
We’ve even found a tutorial that’s great for people with special needs! Check out this video, by Powered to Move, for individuals with special needs.
Regardless of your age, abilities, or fitness level, we hope you let yourself be inspired to join us in celebrating this International Dance Day.
