Professional ballet schools typically have ties to well-known ballet organizations, so you’ll have more opportunities to dance in professional productions. They also provide annual examinations to critique your progress as a dancer.
Recreational schools often focus on a big recital at the end of the year rather than preparing you for professional opportunities. Depending on where you live, it might be easier to find recreational schools near you.
Has trained with a professional company Is well-trained as an instructor, not just a dancer Has a dance degree or reputable certifications Has a good reputation in the dance community Makes you feel at ease
If a dance class has more than 12 students, it’s a lot harder for the instructor to see what everyone is doing at all times. This is especially important if you’re hoping to have a dance career, since you’ll need a solid foundation with great technique. However, even if you’re just dancing for fun, you’ll still benefit from having an instructor who’ll notice and correct you when your form isn’t right.
Wear your hair pulled up or pinned back from your face. [7] X Research source
Pink shoes and pink tights are the most common option for ballet class, but if the studio allows, you can wear black shoes and black tights instead. Avoid wearing black shoes with pink tights—in the ballet world, this is considered tacky. [10] X Research source Do not wear pointe shoes until your instructor tells you that you’re ready![11] X Expert Source Geraldine Grace JohnsProfessional Ballerina & Ballet Instructor Expert Interview. 11 November 2020.
Keep your dance shoes in a separate bag—it’s important to keep them clean, so you don’t want them tumbling around with your dirty dance clothes. Don’t chew gum or eat candy during class—it could be a choking hazard![13] X Research source
To warm up, do some stretches, as well as a few basic exercises to get your heart pumping, like jumping-jacks or running in place. [15] X Research source
Being a dancer takes self-motivation, so if you find yourself feeling discouraged, try to tap into what made you want to dance in the first place. Try not to compare how you’re doing to the other dancers in the room. Sometimes, you might be in a class with students who have more experience or natural ability than you, but it’s important to only focus on what you’re doing and how to be the best you can be. [17] X Research source
Be at least 11 years old[20] X Research source Have taken at least 3 years of classes, preferably 3 times a week or more. Have proper turnout and a strong core Be able to do full pointe at the barre and in center Have the calf strength and enough of an arched instep to support you on pointe
Once you purchase your pointe shoes, you’ll need to sew ribbons and elastics onto them. You may also want to press on the toe box or bend the soles of your pointe shoes—called the shanks—back and forth a few times to help break them in before you wear them. Every dancer has their own way to sew on elastics and break in their shoes. If you’re not sure where to start, talk to the shoe fitter or your dance teacher for tips.
Over time, you’ll figure out how to tie your shoes so they feel secure and comfortable. A good way to start is to wrap the inner strap (the one closest to your instep) around your leg twice, stopping on the inside of your ankle. Then, wrap the outer strap twice, tie the straps together on the inside of your leg, and tuck the ends under the straps.
Put on your pointe shoes for at least a few minutes every day, even on days you don’t dance. That will help you keep the calluses that will allow you to dance on pointe. [25] X Research source Professional dancers are expected to be able to dance pointe for long periods at a time. Keep practicing until you can do a whole class on pointe. [26] X Research source
Most students start at about the age of 7, then take classes until they’re in their teens. If you’re a little older than that, you can still reach your goal, so don’t give up on your dream. However, do be aware that it will take a lot of work—and a decent helping of natural talent. [27] X Research source
Depending on where you live, you might need to take classes at more than one studio to get the training you’ll need.
These exercises are good for your joints so they’ll help with your flexibility, and they use many of the same muscles as ballet.
Pay attention to what foods make you feel energized and which ones make you feel sluggish. That’s different for everyone, but in general, lean proteins and plenty of fruits and veggies will give you the best boost, while foods that are high in processed carbs or unhealthy fats will probably make you feel weighed down. Professional dancers work long hours—on a typical day, you might dance from 10 am to 7 pm, or even later on a day with a performance. [31] X Research source
Summer intensives are ballet camps that are offered by dance companies. This is a great way to get additional dance experience! Be prepared to audition for roles so you can dance in various productions! Keep in mind that you’ll likely need to travel for some of these opportunities.
You’ll probably need to move to a large city like New York to perform with a dance company.
Keep working your very hardest—you might even be promoted to lead dancer if you really stand out!
