The Flexibility Required for Professional Ballet

Ballet is a graceful and demanding art form that requires a high degree of body control and flexibility. Many dancers, especially those aspiring to professional careers, often wonder how flexible they need to be to succeed in ballet. Understanding the demands of the art and the physical requirements is crucial for anyone considering a career in this field.

Flexibility in Practice and Performance

Professional ballet dancers, both in practice sessions and performances, must achieve a level of flexibility that is often breathtaking. Their legs and feet are incredibly strong, which is necessary for executing intricate and physically demanding moves. However, their flexibility, particularly in the back, is also crucial. The ability to bend backward and to support complex dance maneuvers is paramount for any dancer in this genre.

Flexibility for Amateur Dancers

While flexibility is a significant asset for ballet dancers, it is not the only requirement. Anybody, regardless of their initial flexibility, can take up ballet dancing and develop the necessary skills. Professional ballet dancers often start with children who naturally possess a high degree of flexibility. With rigorous training, even those who are initially less flexible become much more so.

Amateur dancers, on the other hand, do not face the same high expectations for extreme flexibility. While flexibility can enhance your performance, it is not a deal-breaker. The focus in amateur settings is often more on learning the basic techniques, cultivating a love for the art, and developing a solid foundation in ballet.

Physical Demands of Professional Ballet Dancers

Professional ballet dancers typically have an over-abundance of joint mobility. This is a result of both natural flexibility and intensive training. Even those dancers who do not start with naturally high flexibility levels will become significantly more flexible over time with consistent practice and training.

The classical ballet schools often select children with natural flexibility, which is a significant advantage. Over the years, through rigorous and specialized training, these natural abilities are further developed and enhanced. Even the dancers who are considered “stiff” by comparison will have a range of motion far beyond that of a non-dancing person.

So, to summarize, while extreme flexibility is highly desired and even necessary for a professional ballet career, it is not a prerequisite for anyone starting out. Anybody can take up ballet, regardless of their initial level of flexibility. With dedication and consistent training, dancers can significantly improve their flexibility, making them more versatile and capable on the stage.