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7 Things to Learn About Ballet Before You Start!
Written by Sarah Wilkiamson   
Wednesday, 01 July 2009 09:47
1. You have to stretch your body. Always ask your ballet instructor if the class will stretch out together. Stretching is very important in ballet. It is used to loosen and strengthen muscles and to lengthen your posture. Stretching is vital and it has to be done before you begin each ballet class session and before a ballet performance. If you avoid stretching, you are at a higher risk of injury during class. Always stretch after the class is over.
by SarahWilkiamson


1. You have to stretch your body. Always ask your ballet instructor if the class will stretch out together. Stretching is very important in ballet. It is used to loosen and strengthen muscles and to lengthen your posture. Stretching is vital and it has to be done before you begin each ballet class session and before a ballet performance. If you avoid stretching, you are at a higher risk of injury during class. Always stretch after the class is over.

2. All ballet dance steps have a name that you will need to learn. The names are mostly in French but if you repeat each step's name as you exercise you'll soon learn them. One way of getting a head start on this is to purchase a ballet dictionary, or print a ballet term glossary off the Internet. Learn each step carefully, making sure that you are following your dance instructor's instructions. When first starting your class should go at a slower pace so that you get a chance to learn how to do each step properly, but as you become more experienced the pace will get quicker.

3. Getting the right size shoe is always important, but it's every more important when it comes to ballet shoes. You need to have a shoe that supports your foot correctly. Don't be tempted to buy the first pair of ballet shoes you try on. Try a few pairs and see which fit you snugly and feel the most comfortable. If possible purchase these from a store that specializes in dance clothing and where the staff are trained in helping new dancers choose the right size footwear.

4. Remind yourself that every ballet class will begin at the ballet barre position. This will become a habit. Just to be cautious, your ballet class session could start at the ballet barre learning dance steps and positions. The ballet barre is used to build your agility, strength and flexibility. Take the ballet barre seriously, it will not be a waste of time or energy. If you avoid the ballet barre, you are unable to dance. All dancers in each level (beginner, intermediate, advanced, even professional) begin ballet class at the ballet barre.

5. Does your ballet school have a strict dress code? You need to find this out before you turn up for your first class! If you wear the wrong type of clothing, even if it's the wrong color your ballet instructor may not allow you in the room - ballet is very strict on rules! Spare money and embarrassment by doing your homework and ensuring you have exactly the right style and color of ballet clothing that your ballet school requires.

6. If you're just starting to learn ballet, don't mix your ballet with other styles of dance as this can be confusing as ballet is very rigid with elongated lines and flowing movement, while other types of dance are not. Once you are familiar with what ballet expects from you, then you should be able to take other dance classes at the same time if you wish.

7. A ballet dance class is a formal environment. You should approach your ballet teacher with respect and carry out instructions without question. Failure to follow this tradition may mean you are asked to leave the class. Remember always, the ballet instructor's word is final.

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