Maybe you’ve dreamed your whole life of being a ballerina but never got the chance. Maybe you started as a young child and gave it up, so now you want to start again as an adult. Perhaps your doctor advised that ballet would be a good physical activity for you. Whatever the reason, before you pirouette your way into an adult ballet class, there’s a few things to consider and prepare for!
To Prepare for Adult Ballet Class:
Before you attend any ballet class, it’s important you know what’s expected of you as a student. For instance, what is the tardy policy? In some more relaxed schools, it may be acceptable to be late and just join in where you can (after warming up, of course). In other schools, it may be considered wildly disruptive and disrespectful to your teacher to come in late. You’ll probably get a sense of how relaxed or strict your class is when you’re there, but better to check the policy than make a bad first impression!
It is also important to be aware what kind of attire you are expected to wear in class. While it’s uncommon for adult classes to have a uniform, many studios may prefer you wear the uniforms such as a leotard and ballet tights. The majority will allow your average fitness wear, though you will want to wear something form fitting so that it is easy for your teacher to check your posture. Leggings or shorts with dance tights are both solid options. In addition to wearing form fitting clothes, you’ll want to wear a good sports bra. Those jumps are not low impact!
For your hair, many teachers will ask that you wear a bun. Some will accept a braid or ponytail, but these options will likely result in you whipping yourself in the face if you try to spin. Use your best judgement. There are a lot of great tutorials for how to do a bun on the internet, take the time to look it up!
Finally, you’ll want to pick a good ballet slipper for class. Ballet shoes are made in canvas or leather, and come in many different shapes. Do a little research on each type to figure out what will fit your foot well, and reference the sizing chart! Shoes should fit snugly without socks.
Note: Don’t confuse soft ballet slippers with pointe shoes. Pointe shoes take years of training to use, so you won’t need them anytime soon! Pointe shoes also require a pointe shoe fitting to find the right size and style for your feet.
Taking Adult Ballet Class:
Now that you have an idea of how to go to class and what to wear to class, let’s talk about being in class as an adult beginner. If your only exposure to dance was when you were very young or through seeing professionals perform, it can be tempting to expect a lot out of yourself. Bear in mind that ballet uses muscles we don’t often target in everyday workouts, and the posture will be foreign to you at first. Even if you’re in great shape or have danced other styles of dance, it is still going to take some time to condition your brain and body for ballet.
Be patient with yourself, and make sure you practice consistently. Take what you learn at class and practice it at home if you can! Get your brain used to the way you want your body to move. Many ballet schools have an online presence now, so you may want to check out your school’s website and social media for practice materials. If they don’t have anything, there are many video channels on Youtube that offer helpful guidance, whether it’s working on flexibility or mastering a specific move.
You may also consider studying the ballet terminology before you get to class. This way, you’re familiar with the different moves, and can focus on perfecting them in class rather than trying to remember what they’re called.
Final Thoughts: Adult Ballet Class
Ballet is a great endeavor for adult learners. It is an opportunity to get in shape, and learn a new medium to express your artistic side. It’s also a great place to make friends, and expand your social circle. In the end, you get out of dance class what you put into it, so if you’re ready to work hard and be consistent, you’re ready to take on the world of ballet. If you’re ready to start taking adult ballet classes, then we recommend getting a ballet basics box with all of the essentials you need for everyday ballet.