About Jennifer Expertise I have knowledge of and access to information about ballet technique and style, professional companies, ballet history, general care of the body, questions about dance education and studios, and other general topics. I can especially offer advice to adult beginners. I will not answer any questions that would be better left to a medical professional.
Experience I have not danced professionally, but I am a dedicated student of ballet and modern dance. I have taken classes in dance history, performed in amateur productions, attended professional performances, and read and watched many books and videos on the subject. I have also reviewed ballet performances for an online publication.
Question I'm afraid of getting out of shape because I don't have ballet for several weeks. What can I do to stay in shape so I'm ready when I go back to dance?
Answer Alena -
I apologize for the delay! I was out of town in San Francisco and forgot to set my AE settings to "vacation"! I hope I havent caused you any problems.
I suggest that you go to the bookstore or library and check out some books or DVDs/tapes about pilates. I think pilates is perfect to safely and *gently* keep yourself in shape during off-times. It concentrates on many of the muscles you use in ballet class -- but its gentle enough that it is unlikely you will hurt yourself without a teacher's guidence.
If you feel confident enough in your technique, you might also give yourself mini-classes at home... but I do not reccomend this if you are not absolutely confident that you can do everything correctly without a teacher's help.
Beyond the specific exercises -- just stay active! Take walks, run around, be crazy... just use your body. You may feel out of shape when you get back to class, but not nearly as much as you might have if you just sat on the couch your entire break.
Finally, a couple weeks off is not necissarily bad for your dancing. I think when you go back, you'll be fresh and have a new outlook on your technique. We all need breaks sometimes!
