Expert: Jennifer - 8/1/2006

Question
I am fifteen and I am beginning to start ballet lessons. I have no previous experience in dancing. I wanted to know how you  attain flexibilty if it isn't exactly part of your usual regiment. I mean I've tried stretching and massaging daily,but nothing seems to help me put my legs in differnet sets and poses. I can't even split.

Answer
Just taking ballet class can definately improve your flexibility, but most dancers need to stretch outside of class as well. Some people are less flexible than others (I am one of them) and attaining (and maintaining) flexibility is a constant project.

I find that the best time for me to stretch is in the middle of class and directly after class (I try to stay in the studio for 5 or 10 minutes after class). You'll get the best, most lasting results if you stretch when your muscles are totally warm -- which I personally only acheive after I have danced a full class.

When you stretch (whether its barre stretch or floor stretch), make sure that you hold each stretch for about 30 seconds, and be sure to *breath* and relax into your stretch.

Ask your teacher for a series of stretches that will benefit your body the most... and do the same ones every single time you stretch. Consistancy will help you see results faster.

You might also consider adding some "crosstraining" to your routine as well -- like, for example, adding yoga classes. Yoga is great for increasing flexibility because you are holding positions for an extended period of time, it is very focused on breathing, and it usually practiced in a warmer room, which will help your muscles warm up faster.

If you do all of this consistantly, you should see results!

Let me know if you have any other questions!