Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 10/29/2007

Question
Hi there.
I contacted you a while back. Saying how i just started at 13 and is it too late. I am determined to work hard for this. I am getting two classes a week of Ballet, and 1 of Modern. I want to get up to speed where i should be though, i want to become more flexible and things like that. Attemtping to get the leg up by my head, i am aiming for also. Is there anything you could tell me about stretching/techniques to help get more of a dancer body. Anythingg will be helpful! Thanks so much!
Clarissa xx

Answer
Hi Clarissa-Ann. There are several articles on http://www.theballetstore.com about stretching. Let me know if there is anything beyond those that you need more info on.
Try to stretch after class as much as you can, when your muscles are really hot. Then later, stretch again, but very gently. Ice areas that sting or ache.

Stretching should not be painful - if you feel a stretchy feeling, then just the beginning of a pain, you are putting enough stress on the area. Controlled deep breathing and relaxation into the stretch is all you need. You certainly don't elongate any faster by excrutiatingly forceful stretching.

I always used to stretch while studying - sitting on the floor in second position with a book, and leaning over onto a big pillow. As I got stretched the pillows got smaller and smaller until I could put my elbows on the floor. Then after a while when my forehead rested on the floor I couldn't study that way anymore.

Go to the blog on theballetstore.com and scroll down to "show all blog entries". You'll see the stretching articles, and one on relaxing - which has stretches, while sitting on a physio ball, in front of a computer.

Hope that helps! It will take time - always remember relaxation is part of good muscle tone, and relaxation will increase length.

Cheers, Dianne