We all welcome a break, time to do 'other things' but it is just as nice to 'get back' to class.
 
The first week back is always tricky for the teacher, inspired by new music we want to 'get going' with new movements, but I like to keep it simple. It doesn't matter if we have had one week or several weeks away from class, the brain has to 'get back into the groove' and the muscles have to be reminded what to do.

The first week back is generally gentle with familiar exercises and music, easing everyone back into the routine of class and most importantly catching up with gossip. As an EXTEND and Medau teacher, I plan and create exercises for my class members. By watching how everyone is doing I adapt and tweak the class as I go making sure everyone enjoys what we are doing and feels satisfied with what they are doing.   Introducing, and adapting, one new thing at a time means everyone is learning something new and new comers feel part of the creative process.  If a movement looks uncomfortable or the class isn't smiling then I know to change and re-think. Sometimes I will just play a piece of music and ask of they like it, there is no point creating something if the majority of the class hates the song! Sometimes It takes a week or so for a new piece of music to 'settle', with so much new music on the radio and so many genres to pick from it takes time to understand the lyrics, to feel the musical highs and lows and be in tune with the beats and bars. 

There is a lot to think about, attending an exercise class isn't just about the exercise, it is about having fun and stimulating the whole brain! 

It is duvet day in our house which means I have the TV control!
While we all need to exercise,  keep the muscles working and the heart pumping it is easy to become obsessed and fill the day wth 'steps' and to pretend to like jogging - we should remember that  it is just as important to rest. With the media telling us that we need to exercise and keep active we can forget that rest is just as important, athletes have rest days so why do we feel guilty when we indulge in a box set? 

Whatever your Bank Holiday indulgence is, a day catching up with a Box Set, a walk in the woods, a sneaky chocolate egg or a glass or two of wine, have a lovely few days with family and friends.