How to Start Ballet at 12: A Practical Guide

Embarking on a ballet journey at 12 is not only feasible but also incredibly rewarding. While many beginners might wonder if learning ballet without classes is possible, the truth is that it can still be a meaningful and enjoyable experience. This guide will help you understand the basics and prepare for the eventual transition to performing ballet en pointe.

Starting Ballet Without Classes

Ballet classes are the best way to learn the correct techniques and foundations, but it’s entirely possible to gain an appreciation and basic knowledge of ballet even without attending formal classes.

Dance for Pleasure

If you're just starting out, dance simply for the joy of it. Reflect on my experience from middle school theater classes. One sunny afternoon, I had the stage to myself, and I decided to dance. As I moved to the music, a girl who had been taking ballet for years, Carol Anderson, walked in. She was inspired by the beauty of my improvisational dance. It’s a wonderful feeling to lose yourself in the music and movement.

Learning from Video Resources

YouTube is a treasure trove of ballet videos. Spend some time watching these performances to understand the different positions, movements, and how dancers extend their arms and legs to achieve beautiful lines. Modern style ballet can also be a valuable resource to understand the versatility of ballet techniques.

Exploring Ballet Styles

Ballet is not just about the traditional style. There are numerous modern styles that you can explore. Modern dance is more free-form and can be very graceful. This could be a good way to start if you're not entirely sure about the strict discipline required in ballet. The movie Billy Elliot offers a fantastic look into the joy and expression inherent in dance, even if it's not strictly on stage.

Transitioning to En Pointe

While many students take a long time to start performing en pointe, eventually, you will be ready. Here are some key points to understand about this process:

Understanding the Physical Requirements

En pointe is painful at first, but with proper training, it becomes easier over time. Special shoes with small wooden blocks inside are required to support your feet as you practice balancing on your toes. Make sure these shoes fit properly and are in good condition.

Building the Necessary Strength

Ballet requires a lot of strength and flexibility, especially in the foot, ankle, and lower leg muscles. En pointe work requires even more strength and flexibility, so it’s essential to build these muscles through regular practice and targeted exercises. Your instructor will guide you through the proper techniques and stretches.

Did you know that there are many videos of ballet on YouTube where you can observe advanced dancers performing en pointe? These videos can help you understand the technique and the key steps to starting en pointe properly.

Special Considerations for Boys

If you're a boy, you might have a better chance of getting free lessons. Male dancers are less common, and this makes it a bit easier to find a teacher who can provide the necessary guidance. If you haven't seen Billy Elliot, do watch it. The film offers insight into the world of ballet from a young boy's perspective.

Understanding the Five Main Positions

Even though you might not be taking formal classes, it's crucial to learn the five main positions of ballet. These foundations are the backbone of the art form. For example, not only do you point your toes, but you also need to rotate your feet just so. These subtle movements are what you learn in classes to become a well-rounded dancer.

Watching and Learning from Professional Dancers

Professional dancers like Natalia Osipova are the living examples of what dedication and talent in ballet can achieve. Despite being petite, she is a master of both classical and modern ballet. Watching her perform remarkable feats, like 84 spins in a row, can inspire you to aim high in your own dance journey.

Corps de ballet members in classical ballets move in perfect unison. Observing how each dancer repeats the same pose, with identical finger movements and foot positions, can be incredibly inspiring. Each dancer works together to create a harmonious and beautiful performance.

Are You Ready to Start?

Now that you have a better understanding of how to start ballet and the steps to taking your first steps towards en pointe, are you ready to embark on this incredible journey? Many dancers start at your age and go on to achieve wonderful things. If you have any reservations, remember that the joy of movement and music can be your greatest teacher.

If you take pictures of yourself (or with other dancers) practicing, tagging yourself with relevant hashtags on social media can help you share your journey and inspire others. Follow other ballet dancers and share their content to stay motivated.

Here are some pictures from a dance class I took part in when I was young. Doris Niles School of Dance in our town: Dancers taking a class in an old theater. The faces of these young dancers are full of potential and passion, just like you.

Enjoy the wonderful world of ballet and music. If you're still considering, I recommend you start small. Put on some music, light up the stage, and simply let yourself move. The joy will be evident, and you might even inspire others as you did for Carol Anderson.