OTTO KHARISMA DANOKO'S JOURNEY

Otto Kharisma Danoko
Tell us a little bit about yourself :)

I am born and raised in Indonesia. I do like dance a lot especially lyrical type where you can convey messages and emotions through motion. I got certified as a Contemporary Dance Teacher by the C.S.T.D. in 2014 and worked as Les Mills Asia Pacific BodyJam Presenter from 2011 until 2016.

How did you get introduced to your dance?

Back in 2006, I got to help my twin brother in a dance competition since one of his crew couldn't make it. I started with modern dance and then hip hop, and over time my interest for contemporary dance and inspired grew mostly from the So You Think You Can Dance TV shows.

When did dancing get “serious” ?

I graduated medical school in 2011, however in 2012 I changed my career path from a medical professional to a dance performer and fitness professional. The responsibilities as a doctor are great and my career in the fitness industry took off and was taking more and more of my time.

The idea of making my hobby my job and not feeling that I have to go to work everyday appealed to me and I'm delighted to be able to say that I make my living from what i love to do. :)

Biggest challenges :

My biggest challenge is obligations that I don't really enjoy like mastering training modules that I don't enjoy myself in particular. I overcome this by getting to know the scientific angle behind a particular exercise and learn how it affects the body. Somehow this makes me much more interested.

How do you handle pressure ?

Pressure is best handled with patience and time management. Time management is essential to me so I can prepare properly without being rushed.

Can you share your thoughts on self consciousness ?

I think it's a great thing to get an adrenaline rush when speaking or performing in front of a lot of people. What is important is how you manage your nervousness and be able to channel it into something positive and make it work in your benefit.

What was your most embarrassing moment (in regards to your  dancing of course ;)

This would be the best question haha. My most embarrassing moment is when I was auditioning for a job and forgot my routine. :)

How did dancing influence your life in other ways ?

It greatly improved my communications skills and makes me feel like I need to do what I can do to be a good person who people can trust their health and fitness too. Also as a fitness instructor I need to be a role model and limit my bad habits so students can relate to me and follow.

What does your daily routine look like ?

I teach 2 to 4 group fitness classes 6 days per week. And next to those I do my own training in between classes. :)

And what about your flexibility training ? Where does that fit in ?

I do several types of flexibility training like passive stretching, active stretching, and self myofascial release. Flexibility training is time-consuming and takes patience, but is an integral part of my routine.

What keep you motivated?

Seeing my students improve from week to week always keeps me motivated.

What are your future plans/goals/dreams?

I want to travel to many countries and learn as much as I can. Having my own dance-/fitness studio would be my ultimate dream but let's see what crosses my path :) I'm always open to any interesting challenging opportunities! :)

Any tips for passionate people starting out  dancing?

Start with any kind of sports that you like and always be open for feedback. Find out what you're most passionate about and keep inspired by surrounding yourself with positive people.

Anything you’d like to promote?

I think the most important is to not be attached to a certain goal and to not be discouraged or frustrated - but to be patient and honor your body where it is. We all start somewhere.

Anything else?

Keep learning, love the journey and results will follow.