Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 1/21/2010

Question
Hello, I am very interested in learning ballet. I have wanted to attend ballet classes all of my life, it hasn't been until recently that we've been able to afford them. I am fourteen years old, I am starting ballet classes a few months after I turn fifteen. I have been able to do the splits and have been very flexible since I was a young child, I hope that, that will help. Also I have been trying to learn the basics at home before I start classes, so that I can be more prepared. I would like to make ballet a career and I'm willing to work very hard and be very devoted. I know because of my age and lack of experience it will be very difficult. I would like for you to tell me if there is hope, in me learning ballet and making it become a career? Also is there a certain weight that I should not exceed?   

Thank you, very much.

-Breanna

Answer
Hi Breanna. I can't actually answer you, yet I can suggest that you ask your teacher, when you begin ballet lessons, if she/he can let you know what track to take to pursue ballet seriously. You may be recommended to take a summer intensive, for example, in order to train more intensively.

As far as weight goes, you will build muscle as you train, so you may find a weight increase. Avoid junk foods and starchy foods, since you need to fill up with nutrition. This means calories that are worth eating, from proteins, salads, fruits and vegetables.

You may enjoy some of my blog posts at http://www.balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/

The posts about ballet technique, barre exercises, extensions, arabesque and more, are all written to analyze the posture, turnout, flexibility and strengths needed to execute basic ballet positions and movements..

A great book to read (there are many, but this comes to mind for you right now) is "Inside Ballet Technique" by Valerie Grieg. If you look at http://www.theballetstore.com you'll see it in the book line up. Check your local library too, they may have it.

There is always hope Breanna! Start as soon as you can. My philosophy is that if you follow your heart - you may or may not end up exactly where you planned, but you will be happy.

All the best, Dianne.