In an inspiring journey of self-discovery and physical transformation, one novice ballet dancer recounts her unexpected foray into the world of classical dance. Over 16 weeks of lessons, she not only strengthens her physique but also cultivates a newfound sense of rhythm that changes her perspective on movement and music.
An Unexpected Leap into Dance
Standing in a spacious studio, surrounded by over twenty aspiring dancers, I was immediately struck by the sheer number of raised hands when our ballet instructor, Kristina, asked who among us had prior dance experience. As a complete novice—aside from an unfortunate single line dance class—I felt like an outsider in this eclectic group. Yet, my eagerness to learn outweighed my apprehension.
As we began with the basics at the barre, I soon realised that my inability to differentiate between left and right would pose a significant challenge. However, my immediate concerns lay with my feet. After a series of movements, which I would later come to know as tendus, my arches screamed in agony, making me question my decision to embark on this journey.
Overcoming Physical Challenges
Despite my initial discomfort, I found solace in the shared experiences of my classmates. Their grimaces mirrored my own, and when Kristina assured us that the pain would subside with practice and proper fitting shoes, I remained sceptical. Yet, by week five, I experienced a minor miracle: the cramping vanished, largely thanks to my new ballet shoes, which a fellow student likened to the pivotal moment of being fitted for my first bra.
By week seven, I had a revelation—I began to notice the discomfort of my everyday shoes and realised that I had gone up a size. This was merely the beginning of a series of physical changes spurred by my ballet training. My glutes grew stronger, my calves became more defined, and I learned the importance of engaging my core, as neglecting it resulted in an all-too-familiar ache in my lower back.
A Surprising Sense of Rhythm
Perhaps the most remarkable transformation was my evolving sense of rhythm. Before embarking on this ballet adventure, I struggled to keep time with music, often missing the beat entirely. Yet, through weeks of practise, punctuated by Kristina’s rhythmic calls of “One-and-a-two-and-a …,” I found myself able to clap in time with pop songs for the very first time. This newfound ability was exhilarating, and it opened a door to a world of musical appreciation I had never fully grasped before.
The initial whim that prompted me to sign up for ballet came after witnessing a performance by the Sydney Dance Company. I watched, captivated, as dancers of all ages and backgrounds found joy in movement. “That could be me,” I thought, an aspiration that felt both exhilarating and daunting. However, as the weeks progressed, I confronted my limitations, including the elusive pas de bourrée, balancé, and the pirouette that often sent me tumbling sideways.
Progress and Future Aspirations
Despite my struggles, many of my classmates progressed more swiftly than I did, ready to transition to the open beginner classes at the Sydney Dance Company. I, on the other hand, still grappled with my left and right, yet I remained hopeful that with continued practise, I too could join their ranks.
As I reflect on my journey so far, I am filled with gratitude for the changes I have undergone—not just physically, but mentally as well. Ballet has taught me about resilience, the importance of proper footwear, and the joy of finding rhythm in both dance and life.
Why it Matters
The journey of taking up ballet, even for a complete novice, illustrates the profound impact of engaging in the arts. Beyond physical improvements, dance fosters confidence, coordination, and a sense of belonging. In a world that often prioritises productivity over creativity, this experience serves as a reminder of the joy and fulfilment that can arise from pursuing passions, no matter how unconventional they may seem. By embracing the challenges and celebrating the victories, we can all discover the beauty of movement and the rhythm of life.
