You're going to the Nationals! And it's a huge deal!

It truly is an exciting time. The stages, the lights, the judges. Everything from your routines to your dancewear has to be perfect. So, of course, you want to be prepared.

Knowing what you're going into will really help you get ready for Dance Nationals. Here are 7 tips to help you get ready for your biggest competition yet.

Tip #1: Know that feeling "not ready" is totally normal

Our first tip is all about confidence. That questioning feeling, asking yourself if you're ready, is a normal thing. In fact, that feeling of readiness is often recognized after the event, when you know you killed your performance and you are totally ready for it. Also, know that everyone gets nervous before a big performance, whether it is their first or their 100th. Feeling nervous (or excited!) just means that you really care about how your performance is going to go. If you practice the routine and have confidence in yourself, you are ready.

Tip #2: Get your dancewear and accessories planned and ready

What you are going to wear is going to help complete your image and your performance, so make sure you're wearing the right dancewear, shoes, and accessories. Make sure your dancewear is comfortable and matches your performance piece. If you are doing more than one dance and will need a costume change, consider dancewear that is easily removed. Your shoes should also be comfortable and help round out your costume.

Tip #3: Practice as much as possible

Since this is not your everyday competition, it is important to practice, practice, and then practice some more. Run through your entire routine leading up to your performance, making sure it is as clean as possible. You also want to rehearse your routine with your chosen dancewear on, to ensure it goes flawlessly while you are in your costume. If you plan on adding any additional accessories such as jewelry, hats, hairpieces, gloves or socks, practice with those on as well.

Also, practicing your facial expressions and talking about the emotion behind your routine can really help you prepare for your competition. Talk with your teacher and fellow dancers about the emotion you want to convey in your performance, and then practice that emotion. Make faces at yourself in the mirror if you need to. You want to make sure that not only are your dance moves perfect, but your facial expressions are as well.

Tip #4: Make a list of everything you will need

Making a checklist of all the things you will need, whether you are a dancer yourself or a parent of a dancer. Think of every little thing you might need, and add it to your list. Your teacher may ask you to bring your studio gear as well, so make sure you come prepared. Some things to add to your list could be:

• Costumes, including all of your dancewear, shoes, socks, tights or leggings, gloves, hats, headpieces, etc.
• Studio gear to show off your studio brand
• Stage makeup
• Hairspray, hairpins, bobby pins
• Safety pins
• Travel sewing kit
• Kleenex or other tissues
• Pain reliever
• Portable snacks

Try to have emergency supplies on hand. Once you're done writing your list, go over it again to make sure you didn't miss anything.

Tip #5: Get plenty of rest

We understand how exciting Nationals is, and it can be difficult to rest the night before. But getting a good night sleep is so important. Being well-rested can help you have enough energy and focus to power you through your performance.

Tip #6: Make sure you warm up

When you get to Nationals, you'll notice that everybody is backstage getting ready and warming up. Make sure you also take the time to warm up before your performance. Not only will this help prevent injury, it can help calm your nerves and make you feel readier. As you warm up, try to ignore everything else that is going on around you and focus on your own body and your own breathing.

Tip #7: Have fun!

Preparing for a national competition can be a little overwhelming. Besides extra practices, it may seem like there's just so much to do and to remember. But try to relax. If you're practiced and planned, you're as prepared as you can be. Dance Nationals is a competition, but it's a time to have fun! Try not to get so caught up in the competition and trying to be the best, but go and enjoy yourself and the hard work you've put into your routine.

Use this Dance Nationals survival guide to help you get as ready as possible. For your dancewear, costumes, dance shoes, or other tips to get you ready for the big day, don't forget to check our awesome selections and tips at Just For Kix.