What's the most important things in learning ballet?

[Anastasiaa]

Hi,  I would like to start dance ballet. I know it's one of the most difficult type of dance but i would like to try. Do you have some advices for me? 

Edited October 25, 2022 by Anastasiaa

[Tango Dancer]

Can I check if you're learning as an adult / under your own steam rather than starting as a child?  The advice for children may be different. I've been doing ballet as an adult for about 4 years now.  

 

My advice is to find a teacher who works for you.  Ballet is not easy by nature so it's really important to get someone who explains the moves in a way you understand.  Different people learn in different ways and some people teach better than others (not everyone who can dance can teach).  Some people teach adult beginners better than others too so it's worth trying a few teachers to find one that clicks for you.  

 

Then expect things to be a bit weird to start with.  The first few weeks can feel very hard work and exceptionally challenging.  It's ok to accept that this isn't easy and not to expect too much of yourself.  Classes usually have a set format (exercises at the barre, then in the centre) and it can take a few weeks to get sorted what will come next.  Centre work is always the most challenging in my experience.  Be forgiving of yourself if you make mistakes, that's fine.  

 

Don't force yourself to compete with the person next to you and don't try and push your body too hard into unfamiliar moves.  It's better to do a small movement correctly than try and do a big one and hurt yourself.  Always stretch things gently at first.  

 

I found it helpful to watch the likes of the Royal Ballet and BRB doing company class for world ballet day.  It's really helpful to see what the exercise is supposed to look like when done well.  You will be learning a simpler version but it's good to see the exercises being set for professionals.  

[Sim]

Welcome to the forum, Anastasiaa!