How to Learn Ballet at Home in 7 Steps
If the COVID-19 global pandemic has taught us anything as a society, it is that the traditional way of doing things is finished. As it pertains to activities, our conventional line of thinking could be retrofitted to account for efficiency. Moreover, many of our recreational activities have been streamlined at home.
Whether you fancy kickboxing classes or learning a new hobby like ballet, your home can be transformed into a gym. Speaking of the latter, ballet can be rather challenging if you do not know the basics. As a result, you should take the time to study the craft and practice a consistent routine.
Here is how to learn ballet at home:.
Step #1: Research ballet techniques
As mentioned previously, taking the time to learn ballet will require conducting some due diligence. Ballet is not something that you can simply master in a week. Rather, it will require you to keep up with a daily routine to practice each specific movement. Take the time to research the art first and foremost.
The internet is a vast learning space. After that, an abundance of knowledge can be found. You could learn a lot in short order, from articles explaining the history to videos promoting proper instruction. While learning the theory of ballet can be worthwhile, it is still vital to move to a routine as soon as possible.
Step #2: Warm up before ballet lessons
Make sure that the area you choose in your home is spacious. You will require at least several inches of feet around you so that you can freely move about. Then, it is important to get acquainted with warming up. Warming up is important for several reasons, but mostly to get your body acclimated to the harder movements.
These can come from stretching your entire body and focusing on specific areas such as the legs. Or, you could also attempt to do some low-intensity cardio activities to get a sweat going. Give yourself at least five to ten minutes of warming up before attempting your first tutorial.
Step #3: Use ballet barres
Although learning ballet at home does not have to be complicated, you are encouraged to get some equipment. Once you become more familiar with the movements, you can take them to the next level. Many ballet acts employ a ballet barre, which allows you to move the body through advanced techniques.
The best thing about this is that they do not have to be reserved for a studio. Portable ballet barres exist, and they are rather inexpensive to purchase. Just be sure to consider the dimensions of your space so that the barre does not interfere with your space. Then, have fun with your practice!
Step #4: Practice the ballet positions
Ballet consists of multiple positions, each of which can be rather challenging to get right. It is generally recommended to start with the basic positions first to ensure they are done right. Most instructors tell their students that a great position, to begin with, involves standing with your legs together.
Turn your toes outwards so that they are pointed diagonally. Your arms should be placed in front of you, to which an oval shape will then be formed. While this is certainly an easy position to practice, it allows you to form a foundation. The next trick involves getting familiar with the hard part!
Step #5: Master the demi pliés
Learning the rudimentary poses of ballet can be exciting. However, eventually, you will be tasked with practicing one of the most famous positions in the craft. To conduct the demi pliés, lift your arms out in front of you, and make an oval shape. Then, bend the knees and lower your body to the ground.
Squeeze the muscles as you come back up to a neutral position. Demi pliés can be practiced with additional support, such as using the portable ballet barre to stabilize your position. Over time, you will get it right!
Step #6: Master the grand jetés
Eventually, your ballet techniques will require you to get into the air. To do a perfect grand jeté, extend one leg in front of the body as you leap. The other leg should be extended outwards behind you. Take a small hop first, and then jump higher when comfortable.
Step #7: Practice makes perfect
Whether learnt in a studio or at home, the techniques in ballet will take an excessive amount of time to master. As a result, do not be afraid to make mistakes initially. Keep watching your video tutorials, and set aside some time to practice. You will perfect your routine in no time at all!
