Top 5 Health Benefits of Ballet

Ballet is a popular hobby for many children as it promotes physical strength and agility, an understanding of rhythm and movement, and interaction with others. But many people give up ballet as they enter their teen years and never return to the activity.

Whether you are new to ballet or have spent years away from the dance floor, you are never too old to introduce this form of exercise back into your life. Here we explain the top 5 reasons why ballet is great for your health.

1) Posture and flexibility

The basic requirement of ballet is to stand with the spine straightened and the hips squared. Ballet dancers need to learn how to hold themselves properly and align their bodies as they move. Practising good posture will decrease your chances of developing musculoskeletal problems later in life. But poor posture does not only risk soft tissue pain and joint dysfunction, it can also have adverse effects on your nervous system, digestive system and circulatory system.

Many ballet positions also require a good level of flexibility. Classes will often involve flexibility exercises which will improve your turnout and extensions. Better flexibility will decrease your risk of injuries by helping your joints move through their full range of motion. Interestingly, the more flexible you are the lower your risk of heart problems, according to a study in the American journal of Physiology.

2) Balance and coordinatio

Ballet dancers of all abilities must have flawless balance and great coordination in order to practise many of the moves. Ballet dancers need balance to be able to stand on pointe for several minutes or to be able to spin and turn without falling over. Ballet dancers also need great coordination in order to combine the different moves and interpret the space around them.

Balance and coordination is one of the main fitness components for success in many sports. Many people who would not be expected to ballet dance, like football players and other professional athletes, practise ballet to improve their balance and coordination.

3) Confidence

Ultimately, ballet is a performing art, and every class will allow you to perform, even it is just to your classmates and your teacher. Ballet requires you to have confidence in your own body and your ability to move, improving your own sense of self-worth. Self-discipline, poise and grace are just a few traits that you will learn through dance.

Ballet classes also involve social interaction with other dancers, which is a great way for shy people to come out of their shell. If you get to an advanced level you may even need to dance with a partner, who will teach you teamwork, communication, trust and co-operation. Some ballet companies even put on annual shows where you can show off your moves in front of an audience.

4) Muscular strength and toning

Like any dance form, ballet is physically intensive. Every inch of your muscles will be actively engaged in movement, and the rigorous exercises and lengthening moves will give you long, lean bodies. Ballet dancers are not bulky; they have toned thighs and a tight bum.

Ballet is an excellent form of strength training for people who do not like regular strength workouts. As well as toned bodies, dancers must have a strong body core and strong legs in order to carry out many of the movements. Strong abdominal muscles are crucial in supporting the spinal column, which can help with many health problems including chronic conditions like back pain.

5) Cardiovascular

Advanced ballet dancers will experience great cardiovascular endurance and stronger heart and lungs. Whilst beginner and intermediate lessons may not provide as intense a workout, you can still give your heart a good workout by introducing a warm-up into your dance routine. A short job before your lesson will warm up your muscles and get your lungs and heart pumping, ensuring you get the maximum benefits from your session.