Why ballet workouts are good for you (and easy for anyone to try)
Ballet isn’t just for ballerinas anymore. Everyone from models to everyday women are taking on ballet as a workout.
Ballet workouts involve micro-movements, which, while low impact, burn fat, build lean muscle and slim and “lengthen” limbs in less time than many other strength training options.
Here are a few moves you can incorporate into your exercise routine to see for yourself. All you need is a barre, or lacking that, a tall, heavy chair. But don’t underestimate this seemingly gentle workout – you’ll feel the burn.
1. Parallel extension
With your back to the barre, stand with feet hip-length apart with knees bent, slightly. Reaching back, grab the barre and raise your right leg, parallel to the floor (or as high as you can manage) flexing foot inward toward yourself. For 30 seconds, raise and lower your leg by only a few cm at a time, then switch legs.
2. Plie
With one hand on your barre and one hand on your waist, spread feet into a sumo position (wider than shoulder length.) Turn your toes out and raise to tip toes, (if you can) bend your knees, and lower until legs are at a 90 degree angle. Lower and raise your body a few cm, lasting for 30 seconds.
3. Fold over
Face your barre with feet at hips. Bend your knees slightly and place arms bent on the barre. Walk yourself back, arms still on the barre, until your body is bent 90 degrees. Rest your head on your arms and raise you left leg straight back. Once in position, raise and lower leg a few cm or make tiny circles with your feet in the air. Continue for 30 seconds and switch legs.
4. Standing leg raise
Stand with your hip towards your barre, right hand and left hand both holding to the barre. Raise your opposite (left) leg back, diagonally (away from your body.) For 30 seconds, lower and raise leg a few cm or make circles in the air. Try reversing directions. Switch legs.
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