It is commonly believed that Ballet is good for the human body and can be used as a way to keep oneself very fit. But the truth is that too much practice is not advisable at all.
The reason being that Ballet’s basic positions are completely unnatural. Just think of the “turn out” which is so demanding to the hips and an obsession for today’s professionals…(1). A lot of dancers in their later years have to undergo operations like hip replacement. The pressure on both feet when raising in “relevé” is enormous, not to mention the pointe work!
If we observe dancers belonging to the 20th century, when Ballet became more technically demanding, we realise how many went into Ballet because they had some physical abnormalities: flat feet, legs malformations, weak bodies or too energetic behaviours.
Alicia Markova, to name one, started because her family doctor suggested it as a cure for a weakness in her legs.(2)
Ballet for children and adults is a perfect healing way. If you keep it up as a hobby not only will it strengthen the back or correct genetic and postural deformities but above all it will nourish the soul. It is very expressive too, especially when you have to interpret a particular character. We must not forget the importance of miming and acting in this performing art. The combinations of steps are challenging and relaxing at the same time. Music has a big role as well in the healing process. Therefore practicing the barre exercises with the right choice of musical pieces becomes a dance choreography itself! It makes you feel lighter, joyful and more positive towards the world around you.
(1) Opening the feet 180 degrees like in a first position.
(2) See “Alicia Markova the legend” by Maurice Leonard