How to Ballet Dance

Ballet is not merely a beautiful, graceful dance form but also the basis for a variety of other dances. This makes it a very valuable foundation for those who want to learn any manner of dance. It disciplines both body and mind as well, since it requires great strength, agility, control and coordination, not to forget dedication and time.

Prerequisites and instructions:

• Locate a beginner’s level class that is made up of people in your age group.


• Dress appropriately, which usually constitutes wearing a basic black leotard with pale pink or white tights; some classes also allow you to wear sheer skirts.


• Shoes are defined by the level and type of the dance you are working on, and as a beginner you will wear a ballet slipper.


• Both the dress and the shoes can be purchased from a dance wear store or even ordered to the studio itself in some cases.


• Hair should be pulled away from the face, pulled back or secured in a bun. It is imperative that you not wear any jewelry such as watches and bracelets that might get tangled as you dance.


• Enter the studio geared up and ready to go. The routine usually begins at the ballet barre where you start warming up. When done correctly, this ensures that you don’t pull a muscle and get injured.


• Move to the center when directed by the Ballet mistress. She will lead you through the ballet positions, exercises and combinations. It is vital that you pay attention since this is where you learn to lift and hold yourself as a dancer. Turns and movements including those with arms are taught here.


• Practice as much as you can and continuously so. While it is not possible always to have a ballet bar, you can substitute  with a railing or a chain and do so in front of a mirror when possible. Toning, muscle control and strength are the life of ballet and are the hallmark of an advancing ballet dancer.


• Learn the names of the ballet terms starting with the basic ones and advancing slowly. Most of these terms are in French and a bid to learn and understand them will actually let you know about movements, positions and formations that you are required to do.


• You can learn from an instructional DVD to begin with if you do not have access to a real time class.