2 Days until Dance Marathon

The thought of standing for 26.2 hours without resting or caffeine might be intimidating to some, and although this challenge may seem daunting, when you look out over the sea of people and see that number raised proudly on stage, there is no better feeling in the world. That doesn’t mean there aren’t some tips and tricks that make dancing for 26.2 hours more bearable and more enjoyable for your feet and your body’s stamina.

  1. Multiple pairs of shoes

Your feet will start to hurt, so having different types of shoes to change into can help them and alleviate pressure on different parts of your feet. Switching from comfortable sneakers to slippers and back can be a lifesaver!

  1. Comfortable socks

A pair of comfortable, thick socks–or actually a few pairs–is another way to help your feet stay comfortable throughout the entirety of Dance Marathon. Alternate between fuzzy socks and your favorite pairs that match the different theme hours to keep it fun and exciting!

  1. Icy Hot

Icy Hot is a must when your body begins to ache and hurt after dancing for such a long period of time without rest. You will be so grateful to feel the heat and burning sensation that relieves pain in your feet and legs when you’re standing all day and night.

  1. A bucket filled with birdseed… (yes, birdseed) or rice

Although this may sound crazy, many Dancers say that this was the single best thing that helped their feet and legs during the event. Standing in a large bucket of birdseed or rice helps alleviate the pressure on your feet and the rough texture feels amazing on sore, tired feet!

  1. A tennis ball

A small tennis ball can go a long way when helping roll out your feet at the event. Many Dancers will bring them and keep them in their fanny packs or pockets so they can easily grab them and roll their feet out on them.

  1. A towel and bathing suit

You will probably feel pretty sweaty, gross and dirty after dancing for such a long period of time, so bringing a towel and bathing suit to shower with helps you feel so much more clean and refreshed during the event. If you bought a swim/shower package… which is definitely recommended… you will also need these items.

  1. Snacks

There’s nothing like feel-good food to make you feel better when you are starting to get tired or restless. Use this as a time to indulge in all your favorite goodies… so bring on the chips, cookies, pretzels, candies, etc. whatever makes you feel good!

  1. Toilet paper

Although this may seem like a given, it may be a good idea to bring an extra roll of toilet paper in case the locker rooms at the event run out. You don’t want to be stuck without it, so better be safe than sorry.

  1. A portable charger

A portable charger is a lifesaver during Dance Marathon if you are using your phone to document all the fun you’re having on Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook, all of which significantly drain your battery. Make sure you charge the portable charger before arriving at DM so you can take as many selfies as you want!

  1.   A fanny pack

Last but not least, a fanny pack is a great way to carry all the little items you need with you at all times. It simply clips around your waist, so you have your hands free to learn the line dance, hug friends, offer piggy back rides, and enjoy all the event has to offer. The DM store will sell cute fanny packs with fun sayings on them, so definitely snag one for the event.