Why adult ballet is a great workout

As adults we tend to stick to the traditional ways of exercising, without realising that activities such as ballet have a long list of advantages for us as well.

About a year ago, I signed up for a few adult ballet classes and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. It turned out to be quite an effective form of exercise.

I may have not stuck it out for long due to time constraints but I certainly experienced some of the benefits it comes with.

Some of the benefits include:

Improved strength

Ballet tests your strength in a variety of ways. Having to hold positions in place can be quite challenging but the good thing is it helps to improve your strength.

For example, just simply standing on your toes for a minute is a great calf exercise that will definitely contribute to toning and strengthening those muscles.

Picture: iStock

Increased endurance

Ballet improves stamina and cardiovascular endurance with its repetitive movements you are sure to benefit from them. In time, you may find that you walk and run with much more ease or even climbing up a flight of stairs becomes a piece of cake.

Improved coordination

In ballet, all movements are repeated on both sides. What is done on the left, is done on the right. With that said, those that label themselves “two left-footed” can give ballet a try and in time, their coordination will be surely improved.

Picture: iStock

Increased flexibility

It is well known that ballerinas are known for their flexibility. There is a lot of stretching but don’t despair, you won’t be expected to touch your toes on day one if that is one of your struggles. In adult ballet classes, they access your strengths and weaknesses and start you slowly.

Improved posture

This is one of the fundamental things that is taught in ballet. Movements performed with the incorrect posture are frowned upon. Correct posture is one of the first things taught in class. By correcting your posture, ballet automatically helps with core strength.

Weight loss

Ballet is a full-body workout that includes cardio, flexibility, strength and conditioning and of course that combination in addition with healthy eating habits will lead to weight loss.

Picture: iStock

Improved self-confidence

Life has its challenges, many of which can knock one’s confidence. Whether it’s a relationship break up or anything else, something like adult ballet lessons may just help you get that spring back into your step.

Peace

Ballet can help to clear your mind and bring peace into your space. If you are going through a challenging period in your life or experienced some kind of mental trauma, ballet may just help to uplift you and bring a sense of peace into your life.

Many dance schools offer adult dance classes from ballet to modern dance, hip hop, Latin and so on. Search for schools in your area and give it a try.

Zulu is a qualified biokineticist and cofounder of PopUpGym. Follow her on Instagram: @letshego. zulu; Twitter: @letshegom; Facebook: Letshego Zulu

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