Ballet is the basic foundation for most forms of dance. Whatever you learn in ballet, it translates to values that can be used to pursue other forms of dance.

The alignment and musicality it requires are only some examples of important qualities in most dance styles.Ballet teaches discipline and builds incredible strength from the core to the extension of the legs and arms. Often times, coaches from all areas of the sports world will recommend ballet to their athletes to help with their form.

Many football players have been known to take ballet classes and even some boxers and horseback riders. Serious ice skaters as well as gymnasts are also required to take ballet. These athletes are taught finesse, posture, speed, balance, strength, flexibility and mental focus through ballet.

These are all skills that are needed on the field, mat, ice, on a horse, and in the ring. Ballet is not just for those that take the stage. Ballet basics can be taught to children as young as three in classes such as combos of ballet/tap or ballet/jazz.

Training will continue as the dancer grows older and moves into pre-ballet, elementary ballet, intermediate and advanced. When the female dancer has reached a minimum age of 11,12 or even older, and has built enough strength, they will start pointe class. Pointe is one of the biggest achievements a young ballerina can gain.

Have you ever seen a five-year-old coming out of ballet class? He/she is most likely smiling and will gladly show you what has been learned. The confidence that ballet instills is not exclusive to the five-year-old demographic. The artistry, musicality, and grace of ballet are great confidence boosters.