Expert: Theodora Sonnenberg - 9/10/2006

Question
what is an ideal ballet body? can you check your own physique?

Answer
Of course we are dealing with the Eye of the Beholder, and trends change in the dance world like elsewhere.  Also, the sterotypical wraith-like, scary thin ballerina is becoming a thing of the past.  Having said that, there are some general guidelines (nothing written in stone):
A strong lean body with a straight spine, well muscled arms and legs that are slightly on the long side. Hip sockets that allow a big range of flexibility, strong, somewhat large feet with a pretty arch. There is no ideal dancer; a body is just the instrument that can be honed, strengthened and even changed to some degree with proper work and training. Don't try to judge your own self, no one is ever objective about themselves.  The July 2006 DanceMagazine has several good articles on body types and obsession with self image among dancers.