It doesn’t matter whether you’re performing in your first recital or attending your grandchild’s seasonal show – once you fall in love with dance, it will stay with you forever. Any performer, choreographer, teacher or studio owner will tell you that dance isn’t just an art form. It’s a way of life! You know you’re a dancer when:

1. Your joints are constantly popping

It’s completely normal to you to crack your ankles, hips and neck, right? Maybe not to average people, but to dancers, it’s a daily occurrence.

2. You critique dancers on reality shows

Your friends might be impressed with the contestants on “So You Think You Can Dance,” but you see past their tricks and recognize when their form is seriously lacking.

Too much glitter? There’s no such thing!

3. You secretly love sparkly makeup

Some people scoff at glittery makeup or proclaim it to be tacky, but you feel a wave of nostalgia whenever you’re near sparkles. After all, a little glitter never hurt anyone.

4. You start counting with 5, 6, 7, 8

Forget 1, 2, 3, 4. The only way you know how to count off is with “5, 6, 7, 8!” It can make taking pictures a little tricky, but you’ve probably bonded with other dancers because of it.

You know you’re a dancer when these pictures bring a smile to your face.

5. You love the recital pics on #TBT

If you’re on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, you know that Throwback Thursdays are a chance to post your old recital pictures. The more elaborate the costumes, the better!

6. The smell of hairspray gives you recital flashbacks

When you get a whiff of hairspray, you’re instantly transported back to recital season, when bobby pins were everywhere and buns had to be just right.

7. You apply falsies like a pro

It’s no secret that false eyelashes are tricky for even the best makeup masters. However, after years of applying stage makeup, you’re likely better than the best when it comes to sticking on falsies.

If the instructor is off-beat in your fitness class, you’ll be the first to know.

8. It drives you crazy when an instructor is off beat

If you’ve taken any type of fitness or recreational dance class, you know it’s maddening when the teacher is off-beat. It’s probably hard for you to resist the urge to get everyone back on the beat by counting out “5, 6, 7, 8.”

9. You’re a whiz with double-sided tape 

Ladies who have ever needed to secure a dance costume to prevent wardrobe malfunctions know the best tricks for securing tricky tops and sagging skirts. Their weapon of choice? Double-sided tape, of course.

Does this look easy?

10. You’re the first to correct anyone who says dance is easy

No, dance is not easy. Yes, it is a sport, and yes, dancers are athletes!