Discover · The Cover Story
The 5 Basic Ballet Positions (of the Feet), Explained Simply
First through fifth position, broken down in plain language with the little cues teachers actually use. The foundation every ballet step is built on, minus the jargon.
Read the storyThe Best Ballet Companies in the U.S. (and What Makes Each One Special)
A dancer-and-parent guide to the top ballet companies in the United States, from New York City Ballet to San Francisco Ballet, with what each one is known for and where to see them.
What's My Foot Shape? Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Peasant Feet Explained
Egyptian, Greek, Roman, or Peasant? Here's how to figure out your foot shape in about ten seconds, and what it actually means for your dancing and your pointe shoes.
Ballet Warm-Up Essentials: Gear and a Routine to Dance Safely
What to wear and how to warm up before ballet, with the warm-up gear worth owning and a simple routine that gets you ready to dance without injury.
Find your footing
Four ways in
Discover
The art, history, companies, and culture of ballet.
The 5 Basic Ballet Positions (of the Feet), Explained Simply
First through fifth position, broken down in plain language with the little cues teachers actually use. The foundation every ballet step is built on, minus the jargon.
The Best Ballet Companies in the U.S. (and What Makes Each One Special)
A dancer-and-parent guide to the top ballet companies in the United States, from New York City Ballet to San Francisco Ballet, with what each one is known for and where to see them.
What's My Foot Shape? Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Peasant Feet Explained
Egyptian, Greek, Roman, or Peasant? Here's how to figure out your foot shape in about ten seconds, and what it actually means for your dancing and your pointe shoes.
Pointe-rs
Everything pointe, fitting, care, and going up on your toes.
Pointe Shoe Accessories: The Essentials Every Dancer Needs
The pointe shoe accessories that actually matter, from toe pads and spacers to ribbons, elastics, and blister care, and how to use each one.
Ballet for All Ages: Tailoring Training Across Lifespans
From toddlers taking their first plié to adults returning to the barre after decades, I've seen firsthand how ballet for different age groups can be empowering, joyful, and life-changing.
Ballet Basics: A Beginner’s Guide to Positions, Techniques, and Training
Embarking on a ballet journey is both exciting and rewarding. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of ballet, I'm thrilled to share some.
Injury Prevention
Stay strong, dance longer, and protect the body.
Injury Prevention for Ballet Dancers: Essential Tips for Strength and Longevity
Ballet is a physically demanding art form that requires incredible strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Lisfranc Injury Overtime
The last thing you want as a dancer is any sort of damage to your feet. Your feet are pretty much essential, so it’s important to prevent foot injuries, like a Lisfranc injury at all cost.
How to Deal with Bunions as a Ballet Dancer
How to deal with bunions as a ballet dancer. Learn about bunions and how you can cope with them when dancing ballet.
The Archive
More from Raising the Barre
Pointe Shoe Accessories: The Essentials Every Dancer Needs
The pointe shoe accessories that actually matter, from toe pads and spacers to ribbons, elastics, and blister care, and how to use each one.
Experience the Magic of Philadelphia Ballet: 2026 Highlights and Tips
Discover the enchanting performances of the Philadelphia Ballet in 2026. Get tips to enhance your experience and make the most of your visit! Read more.
Types of Ballet: Styles, Methods and How They Differ
Classical, romantic, neoclassical, and contemporary ballet explained. Learn the major types of ballet, their styles and methods, and how they differ from one another.
Mastering the Positions of the Arms in Ballet: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn the positions of the arms in ballet, from bras bas to fifth, with a clear guide to port de bras across the Vaganova, Cecchetti, and RAD training methods.
Discover the Best European Ballet Company for an Enchanting Experience
Explore top European ballet companies for a captivating experience. Find the perfect performance to immerse yourself in the world of dance. Read more!
Behind the Curtain: A Day in the Life of a Professional Ballet Dancer
People often ask me what it’s really like to be a ballet dancer. Do we just rehearse, perform, and drink green smoothies all day? Well, yes and no.