A simple leotard with tights is best for class —
wearing them allows the instructor to see that all your
muscles are moving correctly.
Ordinary ballet shoes have paper-thin soles, no heel,
are held on the foot with elastic, and come in different
colors (but usually black or pink). The right and left
foot shoes are identical and take on the shape of each
foot through use.
Pointe shoes have re-enforced toes that help the toes
bear the weight of the body and provide extra support
for dancers going up on Pointe, but remember, Pointe is
not for beginners!
Stretching is one of the most important things a dancer
can do. Stretching makes the muscles stronger and more
flexible, so make sure you warm up and stay focused while
stretching.
Make sure to eat foods with calcium like low-fat cottage
cheese or a handful of almonds so that you can keep your
bones strong and perform at your best.
Ballet is more than just physical exertion. It's the total
process of expressing yourself through creative movement—have
confidence in your self expression and in everything else
you do!
There are five basic positions for ballet. All classic
dance steps start or end in one of these five positions:
First Position—The heels are together, legs
stretched straight. Turn your toes outward to form a straight
line. Your arms should form a curve raised right above
your waist. Your hands should be between your waist and
the level of your chest.
Second Position—Separate your feet to the
side about 1 1/2 feet apart. Your feet should be well
turned out. Open your arms, rounding them slightly. Your
elbows should be slightly lower than your shoulders.
Third Position—Put the heel of your right
foot against the middle of your left foot. Bring your
right arm up so that a semicircle forms above your head.
Your left arm should remain in the second position.
Fourth Position—Slide your right foot forward
so that it is parallel to your left foot with about 12
inches in between. Place your right arm overhead in a
vertical position. Your left arm should be in the first
position.
Fifth Position—Place your right foot close
up in front of your left foot. The toes of your left foot
should touch the heel of your right foot. Both arms should
be overhead and form a round shape. There is a small space
between hands.
For more information, visit: www.bam.gov/sub_physicalactivity/activitycards_ballet.html