QUESTION: I am 16 years old. I have always been interested in Ballet. I love it actually, I used to be quite obsessed with it when I was younger. But I am 5'4 and 110 or so. I don't want to get any thinner then that because it really isn't healthy. The thing is I have one good knee that I just got corrected and another knee that is okay, but is kind of iffy. I was wondering if there was anything I could do to prepare for beginning a class for my knee. Also an average diet for a serious ballerina. I was also wondering if I could use you as a regular correspondent if I can think of any other questions. I understand if not, but I am slightly absent minded and I don't want to keep posting and reposting. So any information you can give me would be greatly appreciated!
-Virginia
ANSWER: Hi Virginia. You are always welcome to ask me any questions...
Please let me know about your knees - one is "ok" - what does that mean? One is "iffy"? Have you injured your knees? Have you had surgery or physical therapy?
If you want to start ballet, it would be best if both your knees are OK.
Since one knee is iffy, I would recommend a Pilates class for a few months. A really good Pilates teacher will know exactly what exercises to teach you, to strengthen all your muscles, and even up the strength in your knees. Also I recommend you check with a chiropractor at least once a month, to make sure all your joints are aligned and that your muscles test well for strength.
For ballet dancers I recommend an Activator chiropractor. You can find one at activator.com.
I have written some articles on http://www.theballetstore.com. There are several on diet. (some are on the blog).Bear in mind that when you start exercising you may build muscle and gain muscle weight. Don't worry about that, it doesn't mean you're getting fat.
Let me know if you have more questions...and remember that since I cannot evaluate you myself that you must continue to get advice from professionals who can see you.
At the same time, don't let my saying this discourage you. Your knees and muscles can be strengthened. It's just that you may need some other method before you do ballet.
The issue with my knee is that there is just tissue in the knee area that is supposted to go away after the fetal development is complete, but mine didn't so it makes my joints ache. The only time I really have an issue is in the winter. I had surgery in one knee to take the tissue out, and the doctor said that my other knee was fine. I am actually going to have that checked out soon, so it isn't that big of a deal. I also do take Pilates two times a week, as well as work out regularly, so my legs are at this point the strongest part of my body. And Unlike alot of girls my age, I wouldn't mind gaining some weight, I am not a weight obsessed person, I just don't want to get to low.
I will check out the sites and I will talk to my doctor to see if it okay for me to do ballet. Do you recommend beginning clothes? I checked with the studio, and I will need a leotard and tan tights. Do you suggest a type or brand?
Thank you again!
Tags: ballerina, beginner