Is Ballet the Right for Me?

Question

I have a problem with choosing hobbies. I'll try something and then I'll find that I don't enjoy it. So I actually have no lessons I take or anything. All I do is draw, read, write, and I'm in a choir. Lately I've been trying to find an active hobby that I can stick to. I don't like soccer, softball, volleyball, basketball, tennis, golf, hockey, and generally any other sport you can name. However,(out of nowhere) I recently started thinking about ballet. It's so beautiful. Ballet is in my family history, and my mom told me that I would be good at it (she says I'm graceful and that I have a runner's legs which is helpful in ballet). I realize that it can be painful and takes a lot of discipline, but I know I can handle that. I just don't know if it's something I want to do. Then again, I'll never know if I don't try. So, what's it like to do ballet? Should I try it? Also, I'm 13, and people say it harder to start late.

Answer 1

There's nothing wrong with taking some classes. If you discuss it with your parents and let them know that this is something you want to *try* -- there should be no problem.

I started very late (in my late 'teens) and I'm not in a ballet company. But if a life as a dancer is your goal, that's one thing. You can always take classes just to feel better/improve yourself.

You'll probably also be exposed to Classical music, which is not a bad thing.

So think -- are you looking for a hobby? fun? or something more?

But 'til you try, you'll never know.  Go for it!

Answer 2

Sometimes you can have such an apprecition for watching a style of dance that when you go into to try it you have too many expectations of yourself. I honestly think you should try it. But try going to a community college beginners class. That way you aren't forced going too slow, but are in a class a people who aren't expecting perfection. Also be prepared to do your class warm-ups and exercises outside of class during the week too. This will help you advance more quickly, and give you more opportunity to practice and get comfortable without the pressure of feelig shy or embarrassed. If you enjoy your first semester keep going. My sister started at 16 and has some of the prettiest lines. So don't worry if you've started too late. Dancing takes practice no matter how long you've been doing it. And to me as long as you put your heart into what you're doing, it'll capture everyone's attention.

Answer 3

go ahead and try it! you will only gain from this experience, especially if you end up liking it. it sounds like you like ballet a lot already. i think you have a good chance of sticking with it.