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« Ian's Dancing with the Stars Blog
This Ain't No West Beverly Prom!
Let me start by saying this: I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
I'm sorry if at any point in my lifetime, through thought, word or deed, I somehow came to think that dancing was just a form of recreation and not a sport, and that those who participated were not athletes. Though the extent of my dance-competition exposure was really limited to Saturday Night Fever and my niece's dance recitals, I never really gave thought to professional dancers as athletes.
I do now.
When I was invited to be on Dancing with the Stars, I was apprehensive about how my friends and family would respond. Would they think it was goofy? Did they think I could dance? Would they support me? Heck, would they take the time to vote for me, or, as a goof, vote for a competitor? Well, I was floored (no pun intended) by their response: They all knew — and loved — the show. Everyone, from my L.A. friends to my family in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut, was so supportive and excited to see me on their favorite show. So I jumped at the chance.... And here I am, psyched to be part of the Dancing with the Stars phenomenon, and part of a phenomenal show. My dad flew in from the East Coast and has been staying with me since DWTS began, which is so special for us both, especially since we both get a good laugh about me "going to dance class." My mom passed away several years ago, but I like to think she's looking down from the best seat in the house, and cheering me on the same way she used to when I was on Broadway or TV. It's all good.
I've always considered myself to be in pretty good shape, but once I committed to the show, I trained even harder to increase my stamina. For two hours every day, I trained. In addition to weight training, I incorporated Pilates and yoga to strengthen my abs and to help my balance and flexibility. I even took my dog Sparky on hikes in Runyon Canyon. So much for being "man's best friend": After all the hiking, I don't even think Sparky likes me anymore.
All that training has paid off — to a certain extent. Listen, I love dancing with Cheryl Burke; she's a phenomenal dancer and person in every sense. But there isn't a muscle, tendon, bone or appendage on my body that doesn't ache, throb, or scream for mercy. I burn in places that can't be discussed in mixed company. And, since it's important that men's dance shirts remain in place during a performance, the shirts button in the crotch like a baby's onesie — after wearing these shirts, I am skeptical I can reproduce. As I write this, I have feeling in only three of my toes. Every day, I struggle through ice baths for my feet, and endless full-body Epsom-salt soaks in my bathtub. (If your grocery store is out of Epsom salt, no doubt it's because I've cleaned them all out.) There is no question my electric bill will shoot through the roof from all the hot-tub soaks I've taken to relieve the pain. The show has consumed me 24/7. Clearly, this ain't no West Beverly High prom, or a night at the Peach Pit After Dark. But you know what?
I. Am. Loving. This!
I am not a "natural" dancer, but I've got enough rhythm to not embarrass myself or my date at the occasional wedding or nightclub. I can count the number of dance classes I took as a teen on one hand, and I only did them so I could disco and "do the hustle." When DWTS producers told me Cheryl was my partner, I was stoked. She's so talented, and aside from her dance expertise, Cheryl knows how to bring out the best in her partners. But don't let her sexy dresses fool you: Cheryl definitely wears the pants in this relationship. She keeps me on my toes, so I can keep off hers.
And that's nothing to be sorry about.
Check out my latest news on ianziering.com, which is updated daily with photos and videos.
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Mar 23, 2007 2:58 PM
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Hee.Hee. I've been a fan of this show since season 2 and I am always amused when I hear the celebs talk about how much they hurt but it's a good hurt because they love. Sorry if that didn't make any sense. I'm so glad to see that you're enjoying the show, and dancing with Cheryl. She seems to be a fun coach, and an all around good person. Here's hoping to a three-peat.
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Mar 23, 2007 3:14 PM
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Hey, Ian: Great blog!! I LOVE DWTS. I've watched it since season 1. And you are so fortunate to have Cheryl Burke as a partner. She is great.
I remember you as Cameron on Guiding Light. That's been a few years back, huh?
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Mar 25, 2007 1:54 PM
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I really enjoyed your blog and your dancing. I thought you were great. I think the judges give low scores in the beginning becauset they know everyone will continue to improve. I believe you will be on the show for a long time and could possibly be the winner.
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Mar 25, 2007 7:49 PM
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Hi Ian,
Seeing you dance with Cheryl on DWTS last week was terrific. I believe you two could be in the finale --- sorry, I do have another favorite couple but I also think that you and Cheryl could beat this other couple.
It's great seeing you on TV again. And I hope that all the pain and aches lessen as the weeks go on.
Hoping to see you continue to thrive on the dance floor...
Tamm
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Mar 26, 2007 8:48 AM
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Good luck tonight Ian!! You and Cheryl are my favorites!
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Mar 26, 2007 12:03 PM
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Wow...this is so cool! Ian, I was a HUGE 90210 fan. I watched every single episode and felt like I grew up with all of you (since I was a year older then your characters). I am enjoying the first season again now that it is FINALLY out on DVD.
Anyway, as soon as I heard you were going to be on DWTS, I knew you would be my favorite. You can count on my vote! I was a bit disappointed when you only got 7's last week, but I'm sure the judges were leaving room in case anyone "wowed" them...which didn't happen. I think you have the potential to go all the way. I'll be rooting for you!
Good luck 
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Mar 26, 2007 3:14 PM
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Love the blog! Excited that one of my favs on DTWS is blogging.
If anyone needs more Epsom Salt there is a whole bunch at the 99 cent store. Hehe.
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Mar 26, 2007 5:16 PM
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So glad you are blogging Ian! Thanks for taking the time! It is great to hear the stars recount how much work goes in to learning the dances. You are sooooo lucky you got Cheryl!! She is the best teacher! My all-time favorite on DWTS!
Loved your analogy to a babies onesie! How funny.
Good luck to you!
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Mar 26, 2007 6:33 PM
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Hey Ian! I'm so glad that you're the one blogging from DWTS :D I'm gonna have to restrain myself from geeking out, being the 90210 fan that I am, but I'll try :D
You and Cheryl were great last week - I don't know if you'll be answering questions, but I would like to know how the partnering process goes? Is it a "pick names from a hat" situation? Because you, dude, definitely got lucky!
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Mar 26, 2007 6:45 PM
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Ian I really enjoyed your blog. It had me laughing out loud. I am enjoying the show so much and of course I am rooting for you and Cheryl, I hope you guys go all the way.
I want to say, from me, don't let the pressure of being w/Cheryl get to you. I was a little worried b/c in your interviews you are very aware of the fact that she won 2 times in a row. Relax, have fun, enjoy your self.
My 9 year old who has taken dance since she was 3 1/2 says you need to relax and move your hips more. (Sorry. But she also says Heather Mills should move her arms more. No lie)
Keep up the good work!
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Mar 27, 2007 8:27 AM
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Nice work last night Ian! When I heard you were going to be on the show I knew you'd be my favorite, you've got my vote!
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Mar 27, 2007 9:19 AM
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A link to his nephew's blog so you can see what Ian family really thinks. http://myauntishot.com/
(the web address is a reference to Ian's ex-wife Nikki)
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Mar 27, 2007 11:37 AM
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Ian,
Great blog! Thanks for the insight. I admit it, I am a 90210 geek from the very beginning - when Steve Sanders rocked the JewFro mullet.
You look terrific on the dance floor - I wish you and Cheryl lots of luck in the competition.
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Mar 27, 2007 12:17 PM
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Hang in there, Ian. I'm sure eventually your aches and pains will be a thing of the past. Maybe. Or maybe not.  Great blog. Very insightful and well written. Best of luck to you and Cheryl. You can win that ugly disco ball thingie!
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Mar 27, 2007 3:54 PM
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