Brand new free app launched today to help dancers with their physical & mental wellbeing
Photo credit: Barney Finch
A new free mobile app, HELP4DANCERS, has been launched to aid dancers in becoming mentally fit and emotionally strong by building resilience from the stresses and strains of dance training and performance.
Available via Apple and Google Play stores, HELP4DANCERS provides dancers with access to a professional programme of daily sessions including: weekly check in health questionnaires and advice from dance-related psychotherapists and counsellors on many aspects of mental health; exercise and meditation videos; injury prevention and maintenance with leading physiotherapists.
Other features are strength and conditioning sessions and Pilates with professional coaches, advice on career development and nutrition and regular guest speakers including UK and international dance professionals.
Creator and psychotherapist Terry Hyde said: “During the pandemic dancers have been missing in-person training and performing and sadly, as a result, I have seen an increase in clients seeking my help. Because of my own experiences as a performer, I can bring a genuine understanding of the unique demands that are placed on dancers, from body image and bullying to audition anxiety.”
“On this free App, users will be able to join a six-week programme which tracks their progress and in turn helps them to recognise what they can do to help improve their emotional and physical strength. And, as Birmingham and the West Midlands is one of the major Dance hubs outside of London the App can reach out to the many dancers and choreographers based there.”
HELP4DANCERS participants can join pre-recorded sessions with a host of professional dancers and practitioners including Director and Choreographer Brendon Hansford who has shared his skills with the likes of Sam Smith, Rod Stewart and David Guetta; Isabella Gasparini, Soloist with The Royal Ballet; Tomorr Kokona, Coach and Mentor and former international arts professional; Ballet Physio Luke Abnett who spent 6 years treating students at The Royal Ballet School, Mikko Nissenen, Artistic Director of The Boston Ballet Company and School and Professional Irish Dancer and Pilates Teacher Joe Duffey (Riverdance/Lord of the Dance/Broadway).
If successful the team behind the App hopes to expand its offer with the introduction of seminars, workshops and conferences.
HELP4DANCERS, for professional and student dancers as well as parents and teachers, is available for all dance styles including Ballet, Irish Dance, Tap, Hip Hop, Ballroom and South Asian Dance.
