The New Year is always when the gyms are at their fullest, people make promises to live a healthier lifestyle and more fruits and vegetables are consumed.

Unfortunately, by February many people break these resolutions and slip back into bad habits. It has been proven that to make healthy choices, it is important to make it into a part of everyday life and that is exactly the same for children.

By enrolling them in a performing arts class, they are committing to turn up each week and participate in a class that is good for both mind and body. When considering exercise and children, the important part is to make fitness fun, or they will be turned off it for life before they’ve not had the opportunity to develop healthy habits.

Razzamataz Theatre Schools have an ethos where performing arts is about creating fit and active children while they are learning about the world and having fun. Participation in dance, drama and singing classes enable students to focus on different skills than they learn in school and offer an outlet for those with a passion for creativity and performance.

“Leading a fit and healthy lifestyle is not just about the foods we eat and the exercise we take,” says Sophie, Principal of Razzamataz Wimbledon. “It is equally about creating well rounded, confident children who are able to empathize with others and put their feelings first. All these emotions and life lessons can be played out throughout performing arts classes and by doing so, we can help to create happy and healthy children who will reach their full potential.”

Razzamataz Wimbledon offers classes in drama, dance and singing for children aged 4 to 18. As well as offering a diverse curriculum covering both the worlds of classic West End musical theatre and commercial pop and street dance, an important part of the classes is preparing for performing opportunities so all children have the chance to step into the limelight.

A key message for the theatre school and one that has been incorporated into all marketing materials is for students to ‘Create your best role.’ The message and meaning behind this is to show that no matter what your role is in life, be the best that you can be. This is true for performers but equally just as relevant for everyone from nurses, to lawyers to builders.

“Being your best self is about being the healthiest in both mind and body that you can be,” adds Sophie. “Children naturally have lots of energy and it is important that we harness this and their creativity to steer them in a positive direction in life.”

Razzamataz creates ‘triple threat performers’ meaning students leave being skilled in dance, drama and singing. During their time at Razzamataz, they will cover lots of different genres from classic West End musical theatre through to acting for camera, street dance and pop singing.

There are lots of opportunities to perform locally and on London’s West End stage and many students are securing professional work, filming adverts and performing professionally on stage.

The fun classes are for all children whatever their background or ability and there is a strong focus on keeping fit and active, having fun and making friends. Classes start at age four and go on to 18 and there are lots of opportunities to perform giving children the opportunity to grow in confidence.

To start your New Year off the healthy way, Razzamataz is offering free sessions throughout January and February. To enquire about joining Razzamataz Wimbledon email Sophie on wimbledon@razzamataz.co.uk. Alternatively call 07500 837911 – or – 0203 784 6550 or visit www.wimbledon.razzamataz.co.uk

Based on information supplied by Sophie Atkins.