Things to Know Before Starting Ballet Class
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. Ballet shoes are the most important piece of your ballet outfit. If they don’t have the shoes that you want in your size, don’t be tempted to get smaller or larger ones. Instead, choose another style! If you want to train to be a ballet dancer you must look after your feet, and that means ensuring you always wear the right size shoe.
4. Ballet lessons always start with barre work. This is intended to build up your flexibility, your posture and of course your balance. You might find it boring but remember that even the most famous ballerina in the world will start her daily dance session at the barre doing very much the same exercises that you are doing.
5. Ask your ballet instructor about the ballet school’s policy on dress code. Some ballet schools have you wear just tights and a leotard, some will have you wear tutus. Remember that your ballet instructor has to see what you are doing at all times and you have to be comfortable when wearing your attire. If you cannot find the ballet schools’ dress code, wear pink tights, a black leotard and pink ballet shoes.
6. To be more successful in ballet, find out if other dance classes are available. Classes such as jazz, hip hop, modern etc. Taking other classes will expand your dancing abilities. If you have made the decision to become a ballet dancer, all of your dance classes have to be ballet. If you are a beginner at ballet, do not mix all of the dance classes and your ballet classes together. Those dance styles will clash with your ballet and you do not want to look like a fool.
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.