Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 9/17/2007

Question
Hi and thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions!!!

A few questions on ballet...

I am very inflexible! I can not do a split for anything, in dance class it is embarrassing. I try to practice everyday. When I do I push as far in to the split as possible(it hurts real bad) then hold it for 10 seconds.
Am I stretching wrong?? Is there a better, more effective way to stretch?

Secondly, I am 15 years old, I have been doing dance for 6 years and I was wondering if it was too late to start pointe. Would it be too hard to start at my age? I know I would have to take demi pointe first, but would I end up in class with 8 year olds?

Almost done, want type of food would you recommend I eat? I've heard that dancers need more carbs than most people, is that true?(keeping in mind that I practice 2-3 hours average each day)

And lastly, I take dance 2 or 3 times a week(sometimes more) and I try to practice an hour a day, sometimes 2 hours, my mom says that this is too much on my body along with school and gymnastics(certain times of the year). She said it will make my body tired and run down and I won't be able to perform as good as if I only practiced every other day. Is that true?

Thank you again, you have no idea how much this means to me!!!!

Answer
Hi Renee. I'm going to answer the splits stretch and diet part of your question by referring you to http://www.theballetstore.com because I have a  lot of detail in the articles, blog, and forum entries there. Way more than I could  get on here.

It is up to your teacher, who can see your technique and strength, as to when you do pointe. There may be a class for older students.

Your mother is right, theoretically, that muscles need a day of recovery from strenuous exercise. The facts are, however, the ballet dancers and gymnasts ignore this need, as training requires daily work.

Dancers do not need more carbs, except for complex carbs in fresh foods. They need a lot of protein, fresh vegetables, fish, salads and fruit. Just plain, fresh foods.

I hope this helps, all the best, Dianne

A brief follow up - I've recommended to almost everyone to read my articles and blog entries at http://www.theballetstore.com You have to create a user name to log in to see all the blog entries - your privacy is safe! I really apologize that I didn't tell you this - I'm not a technical person!