When you compete in an event that is judged, appearance is typically taken into consideration. Even if there isn’t a mark for appearance, your appearance in how you present yourself can affect how the judges perceive your ability. As much as it would be nice to believe that only ability is judged, the human eye…
To be a good athlete, you need strong motivation. However, levels of motivation can vary throughout the year. So it’s important to find ways that spark your motivation. One of the best and proven ways to keep on track with your athletic plans and increase motivation is through goal setting. What better time to set…
When you think of ways to improve your performance, fitness might be one of the first things you think of. How about flexibility? Improving your flexibility lengthens your muscles and helps your posture, making you appear more confident. So working on your flexibility is actually one of the more important things to do when working…
Finding inspiration as a performer is sometimes key to giving that moving performance yourself, whether you’re a figure skater, gymnast, dancer, actor, singer, or any other type of performer. Here are two videos that can help you find inspiration in many different ways. A few things to look for to find inspiration are costumes, innovative…
I have a guest poster today who was always an excellent competitor – my brother, Will Chitwood, from Chitwood Skating! Having competed in pairs skating for ten years, I learned various techniques to handle the pressures of competition and public performance. Now I’m a skating coach. Here’s how I deal with my students’ most common…
Do you ever go to the zoo and end up watching the monkeys for a long time … or any animal for that’s being really playful or putting on a show for the audience?! Zoo animals have character; they are watched throughout the day; they are used to being on show. These are all things…
All individuals need inspiration in different ways for getting into character. How you get into character may be completely different from how your friend, teammate, or co-worker gets into character. I love using movies and TV shows to inspire character! Here are some that I love to use: Any dance movie. I always feel motivated…
What better reason to perform than for love?! Whether it is for love of your sport, art, yourself, a family member or special someone, it is a wonderful thing to perform for love. Passion is something people enjoy watching in a performance. Here are three ways to express your love for performance: 1. Perform with…
I’ve always loved having my photo taken. I’ve had good training over the years because my mom always loved taking photos. My mom’s photo taking (she considers herself the family paparazzi!) was a great way for me to feel natural in front of the camera. I’m now the second generation of Chitwood family paparazzi, and…
Many Chinese athletes are known to have an amazing work ethic. Their pursuit of excellence makes them a real inspiration. Here are 5 ideas we can learn from the Great Chinese State Circus as they present a true blend of sport and art through acrobatics and ballet: 1. Develop balance and strength. 2. Be creative. 3. Push…
