Interview with Gina, DanceFIT Studio's owner & adult ballet teacher

Describe an adult beginning ballet class
This is truly a beginner ballet class.  Ballet steps are introduced slowly and repeated each week allowing technique (and self-esteem) to develop in a fun atmosphere.  A ballet class is structured into three parts: ballet barre, center & across the floor.  Every class begins at the barre.  It is an essential part of ballet class.  You learn how to establish body placement, build strength and refine the basics of technique. The exercises are very similar week to week, but I like to advance them or change a few to keep it fun & interesting.  This week I have all of barre set to a beautiful ballet track of 90's hits. We then put the barres away, spread out in the center and work on a port de bras (carriage of our arms), jumps & a petit allegro.  Across the floor, we learn steps like chaine turns and how dancers spot so they don’t get dizzy.  

What's your favorite thing about teaching Adult Beginning Ballet & Why?
I teach kids ballet all day and love every minute of seeing them master new steps, move their body with the music and build confidence week to week. I am so excited to offer this beautiful experience to adults too.  You are NEVER too old to dance....in fact, ballet is great for older bodies as it isn't a high-impact exercise so there is less injury to older joints. I love watching the adults make progress each week :) 

How has adult beginning ballet changed your life?
I am so used to making dance classes creative, silly, engaging, and age appropriate. We are a dance studio that focuses on classes for ages 2-8 so it has been a rewarding and very fun experience for me to teach adults what I love! Ballet can have such a positive impact on your physical and mental health.

Favorite adult beginning ballet move/song right now?
I am enjoying my adagio combination right now. It is a beautiful port de bras to the instrumental version of the song “Speechless” from Aladdin...  (I promise this really is an adult class haha)

Can you modify adult ballet if it feels too hard, and how do you do that?
Ohh yes absolutely.  So many ways to modify. I give you real time options in person and always give an alternative to our jump combination if you don't want to jump :)