As many of you may already know, I am a dancer and have been since I was a baby! I started taking Ballet when I was two, and have been dancing and loving it ever since....I danced for a company and studio until I graduated high school and I danced 30+ hours a week, and most of those hours were ballet classes. I never realized how hard of a workout ballet was until I went back to take class today after almost a year and a half.
Let me tell you, ballet is a freaking workout! It doesn't matter if you're a Cross fit guru or you work out twice a day, you still wouldn't be in "Ballet Shape". It uses so many muscles that you don't use when you're at the gym. I was dying during the barre exercises and can already feel that I am going to be VERY sore tomorrow. So I decided to make a list of the some simple "Ballet Workouts" for all of you to try out.
These workouts are Ballet Inspired, and anyone can do them!
1. plies and grande plies
Plies are such a good leg and core workout. It seems like a really simple workout, but when done correctly and repeated it can really tone and sculpt your legs. And we all want Ballet dancers legs!
For an extra workout hold your arm out in the position above, and for an even better arm workout add some weights to your hands.
Here is a YouTube link showing exactly how to do Ballet Plies.
2. relevé
(definition: to rise)
Releves are the best thing for your calves! It elongates and tones your legs. Your legs will be Summer ready, and you can rock those heels. Start by doing releves (calf raises) in first position. Start by doing 50 a day then add 5 to 10 more a day. Make sure you stretch because your legs will be sore fast!
3. stretching
Stretching is SO good for your muscles and can help to prevent any serious injuries. Ballet dancers stretch daily and consistently in class. That's why they are so flexible! Flexibility can help a lot in working out or just in completing daily tasks. (Bending over to pick something off the floor) So stretch. ASAP
Wish I could still do this.....
Xo.
CD
