Ever wanted to try your hand at ballet but think that you're too old or that you're just not the ballet type? Well, think again because ballet is back. Actually, I don't think it ever went away and there are many reasons that ballet might be the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of life.
You don't need to don a tutu, unless you really want to of course! You will however, need a pair of ballet shoes and they're cheap if you're just starting out. You can buy them online or at specialist dance shops. As for other attire, anything goes really. Leggings or jogging bottoms and a t- shirt will give you the ability to move comfortably. When you progress, you might want to invest in a leotard to feel more like a ballet dancer but it's not essential.
Ballet is great for posture and core strength. If you have a tendency to slouch at your computer or desk, then ballet is the perfect way to help you adjust your posture and stand taller. This will also help you to develop more self confidence. Slouching and walking with our head stooped can make us feel low. Start standing tall like a ballet dancer and feel things change in your mind-set too.
Yeah, I knew that would get your attention! Ballet is brilliant for shedding those excess pounds as it increases your metabolism. Of course, it's all in the mind too. Focusing your attention on a new endeavour will mean that the boredom is less likely to set in and you won't be reaching for those high calorie snacks.
There is a lot of strength work involved in ballet and exercises involve placing weight on one leg at a time. You will start by learning the placing of the arms and then you will start to perfect those pretty pirouettes. You'll be doing some jumps and developing your coordination as you progress through the classes. Balance, agility, coordination and flexibility are just some of the things you will develop through ballet classes. In short, you'll be nicknamed twinkle toes before long!
Ever noticed how ballet dancers are super toned? Well, it's the ballet that does it. The abundance of stretching involved means that you can maintain muscle length too. The constant repetition of the exercises will mean you will build strength in the hips, lower legs, ankles and feet.
Ballet classes are friendly places. If you have horrible memories of ballet classes in your youth, banish them from your head now because adult ballet classes are great. You will meet many people who are looking to do something different, step out of their comfort zone and get fit in a fun and friendly environment.
You might have heard of Barrecore and BarreConcept and these are ballet inspired work outs that involve body-boosting ballet moves. Search online for some local classes. You can even stream a class straight to your living room via Balletbeautiful.com. Run by Mary Helen Bowers who trained Natalie Portman for her role in Black Swan, what better way to learn about ballet!
So, these are just a few of the reasons to add ballet to your gym routine. Are you inspired to try ballet or some of the ballet-inspired classes out there?