How to Learn Ballet to Improve Flexibility
If you're like most adults, you're finding that it's not as easy to bend and stretch the way you did in your youth. Can any of that flexibility be recaptured? Ballet is a great way to improve your flexibility and a fun way to get fit!
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Instructions
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Decide where you would like to learn ballet. Many dance schools offer ballet, but unless you live in a larger city, you may need to search to find a class for adults. A university most likely will include ballet in its course offering.
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Get ready for your class by locating the barre, a round rail securely attached to the wall. Most classes begin at the barre, where you warm up, stretch and learn ballet basics while holding on for support. Barre work builds strength, improves technique and increases flexibility.
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Notice the instructor's turnout, or rotation of her hips, legs and feet as she instructs the class. Dancers hope for 180-degree turnout.
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Move to the center of the room with the class. The teacher will instruct the class in step combinations that were taught at the barre. This is where the arms, legs, turnout, balance and weight distribution come into play. Without the barre to hold onto for support, this portion of the class may be the most challenging, especially for beginners.
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Listen carefully as the teacher instructs you in proper technique. Try not to out-dance or out-stretch the other dancers in your class. Your muscles will regret it later!
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Practice your combinations at home so that you can remember them. Be sure to clear a dance space.
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Consider purchasing a barre for your home so you can continue to work on what you learned. You can find portable barres, or install a permanent barre for a large room of your house.
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Tips & Warnings
Most studios have two heights of the barre available, so don't worry about hiking up your leg too high at first.
Don't be discouraged if your turnout is 45 degrees. Before long, the teacher may compliment your turnout as your flexibility improves.
Be sure to get a doctor's approval before you start any kind of rigorous activity such as ballet.
