Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 8/23/2007

Question
Hi, First thank you for the time you put into all of your answers--they're great! When I was little (like 4 until age 8) I was in ballet. I'm 25 now and remember nothing:). I went to an adult ballet class a few times but I came in the middle of a session and they were getting ready for a recital. So, I was frustrated because I just got pushed off to the side while everyone else had fun.:(
Now, I should note that I have to move about every 3-6 months for my job. I just want to be more graceful, slim up a little perhaps and do this for myself. I think with my moving schedule getting to classes are way too tough (and I work about 70 hours a week so getting them into my schedule is tough). Do you suggest any dvds that might fit the bill for me?
Thanks so much!
Nicole

Answer
Hi Nicole. I think I have the perfect thing for you. Classical Stretch. If you go to this link:
http://theballetstore.com/content/view/14/27/
you can see it on that page. It is a very balletic stretch and strength DVD - 50 min long, and has beautiful presentation and lovely music.

The creator, Miranda Esmonde-White is a former ballet dancer, and a graduate of the National Ballet School of Canada. She coaches dancers, Cirque du Soleil members, and Olympic athletes. This workout is for anyone to learn, but is ballet-based, Pilates based also. The stretchy way you work elongates your muscles so they don't bulk up.

I don't want to sound like an advertisement. It's just that I know the high quality of training she had, and the work she has put into Classical Stretch.

You may have seen Miranda on PBS tv - doing a classical stretch workout.

Let me know in a few months how you feel after doing it three times a week. I'd love to know, or to have you post a note on the forum of theballetstore.com, on how you are enjoying it.

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!