Can you start ballet classes at 14 with no previous experience in ballet?

Question

Is 14 too old to start ballet classes? I also wanted to know how long does it take to start pointe? Is it possible to do normal ballet for 1 year and then start pointe? I really want to do ballet but am worried about joining a class and being stuck with a bunch of 7yr olds. I don't mind so much doing the classes with people that are younger than me, but can you imagine what the end of year concert would be like? Opinion wanted!!!

I havn't done ballet before but have done styles of dance that are similar. I have very strong legs too (if that helps lol). I need to be more flexible too, is that hard? THanx

Answer 1

Unfortunately if you have no experience you'll have to start at a beginner level with small children, but if you are a fast learner there's a good possibilty that you could work your way up. You probably won't start pointe for quite awhile.

You'll need to master the basics before you get those coveted pointe shoes!

Hope that helps!
Dahna

Answer 2

I don't think you could start pointe with just one year of ballet behind you. Try starting with a modern or lyrical class and some pilates (to build up your strength and flexibility). If your modern or lyrical teacher doesn't teach you all of the basic positions of ballet (which he or she should), then buy a book that illustrates these positions and practice them. But stick with the dance class too. Do some basic pointe preparation exercises (for example: holding on to something like a barre or the back of a chair, knees facing forward, feet together, squat down into a parallel demi plie. Then while you're in this position, lift your heels into releve [all five toes and the ball of each foot on the floor, but your heels lifted as high as they'll go.] Hold this position for a few seconds, then slowly let yourself back down. Repeat.) These pre-pointe exercises combined with pilates and a loose form of semi-ballet dancing like lyrical or modern will have you ready for a pointe preparation class in about a year. Usually the pointe-prep practices with the pointe class. After a year of pointe-preparation, you should be strong enough for pointe. If you're not, you should just keep at it. If your instructor tells you that you're not ready yet, then you're not ready yet. Remember: pointe is dangerous, especially if you try to do it before you're ready. Also, when you start pointe, be prepared for some pain. Bloody feet are a very common sight when you first start pointe. But don't let that discourage you. Go for it! After the first month or two, you'll find that it was all worth it.

Answer 3

there is never a cut off when it comes to learning something new! i'm a dance major in college and let me tell you - my best friend, hes one of the most incredible dancers ive ever met, started when he was in high school and is now on his way to potentially being in taylor 2, then paul taylor.

the whole pointe issue is something that everyone teaches differently. my personal and professional advice would be to do ballet until youre comfortable with the style and technique involved. once your teacher tells you that you are ready, you can go en pointe. it isnt easy and if it is done wrong can create serious problems like tendonitis, arthritic conditions and ankle problems.

normal studios dont put 7 and 14 year olds together so i wouldnt worry about that, and if you are, ask before you enroll. you may be with a group that is closer to 11 and 12, because you are an absolute beginner, but as time passes your teacher may decide that you are catching on fast enough to move up to your own age level.

hope that helps!
happy dancing!

Answer 4

you are never too old to start ballet, I danced for 11 years before i got en pointe, but that also was when my bones were still growing, I would think the least ballet experience to go enpointe would be 1.5 years but i would recomend 3, you'll feel more comfortable. There are Adult classes so you dont have to start with 3rd graders they might not do a recital peice but youll learn the technique at a quicker rate then younger kids.

Answer 5

yes you can start ballet at 14. at the dance studio they break the classes up according to age & level. so you will probably be in a begining level with 12-16 year olds. & you can DEFINATELY not go to pointe within 1 year. there is absolutely NO WAY. at begining level you just learn the basics. you will need at LEAST 5 years of experience. more like 8-ish years.

Answer 6

well, no it's not too old but keep in mind that it's slightly unrealistic if you want to dance professionally in ballet. also for pointe, it depends on your strength in order to be in pointe shoes and probably not I year in ballet and then start pointe. probably 2 years of ballet and then you start pre-pointe, training your muscles to understand the ballet techinque more. I reccomend 3 classes a week to start.

Answer 7

Training and performing is 2 different things. IF you want it go for it. I was 36 when I first learned to tap dance. Hard yes with teenagers, but I looked great doing it. Go ahead and dance with the little ones because your teacher is teaching them correct form and the kids your age should already know that stuff. You would be missing alot of technique if you go to the class with kids your own age. Enjoy

Answer 8

If you have a good dance school, they should be offering classes for teens and adults (even beginning ones - I started at 30 something). Your dance teacher will help you decide when to go on pointe. You need the skill and talent, but also the strength and endurance.

If it's something that you really, really want. Do it! You won't regret it.

Answer 9

you can start at 14 but you have to be patient and have endurance. it would take you quite a time to get pointe shoes though

Answer 10

yes but as a HOBBY,i don't think there are great chances of becoming put with elder ones though/however if this is your dream GO FOR IT(honestly)