How to Do a Ballet Work Out

Ballet moves have slipped into traditional workout programs over the last few years. This is because ballet is all about strengthening the body and toning muscles. You can create your own ballet work out based on a few simple moves.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin with plies. With your feet at a 45 degree angle, bend your knees and sink down, then straighten up, balancing your weight evenly over both feet. The farther you sink down, the more your legs will have to work, and the stronger you'll become.

2. Use releves for calf-strengthening. From a regular standing position, rise up onto your toes and then slowly lower back down. For an even better workout, do releves on one leg at a time.

3. Keep in mind that grand battements are wonderful for the entire leg. Stand in first position with your heels together and your toes out. Brush one foot forward on the floor and lift that leg up to hip height. Then lower the leg. This works the thigh. If you do grand battements to the back, you'll work the hamstring. Try to hold your upper body still.

4. Know changements are great exercises for the legs and actually get your heart pumping. Stand in fifth position (The heel of one foot fits into the groove next to the big toe of your other foot). Jump into the air and switch foot position when you land. Make sure you keep your posture straight as you jump and land.

5. Do floor stretches. At the end of your workout stretch your muscles out. Sit on the floor with your legs split apart. Bend over to one side and then the other. Stretch your calves and hamstrings.

Tips & Warnings

• Check out ballet videos from the library for more ideas of workout moves you can do at home.