How do you get back into dance after being away?

Question

Once upon a time I was a talented young ballet dancer who could have gone into any company she wanted. After struggling for years with anorexia I decided to stop dancing.
Now it has been nearly two and a half years since I have taken a class and I really want to return to the dance world.
The only thing is that I am scared to death and I have no idea how to begin getting back into shape.....Is it really as simple as just taking one class at a time?

Answer 1

I never taken such a long break, but I know what you mean. The key is don't be too hard on yourslef at the beginning. The first few practices, or maybe even first few months your dancing won't feel as great as it used to. It is normal. Accept it, but do your best. It is an unpleasant stage, but it is a stage, you will get past it, just be patient with yourself.

Yes, pretty much like you said - one class at a time. If you can afford it - maybe some extra private lessons with a good teacher.

Answer 2

Once upon a time, I was not as talented as you, but loved my ballet classes just the same. I quit to marry and have babies. Recently, for exercise, I took a Movement Class. It was the best decision I ever made; as soon as I started moving again, I started crying. The familiarity of it all was just too much.
Bite the bullet and just go. If you are concerned about your health and that is why you don't want to get back into dancing (the obsessing about your weight, etc.), just do it for fun and exercise. Don't worry about the competition for a spot in a company or being a principal ballerina this is where you probably messed up the last time and got too involved in your head.
Just do it for the love of the dance, because I know you do...love it, that is...it is in our souls!

Answer 3

Congratulations on your decision to go back to dancing! It can be very tough to take the first step and go back to class after a long break, but it is so much fun and rewarding if you truly love to dance.
The great news is that your body has something called muscle memory. So in other words - your muscles and your body will remember what to do and how to do all the movements. It is already "in" your body and it will come back to you. The bad news is that you will be VERY sore after your first few classes...lol.
Just take that first class and it will come back to you. And hopefully you will have another perspective now that you struggled with your body before and can love and appreciate your body today for what it is. Best of luck!

Answer 4

Well I think dancing is like riding a bike especially is you use to dance since you were younger.

I think if you want to get back into dance and promise to make sure you do it in a healthy way you can find it to be an enjoyable experience.

You should obviously start stretching maybe start off at an intermediate level to regain your technique.

Since you've danced before maybe you can just dance in your room. Just put on some music and do barre as you use to before you stopped. Obviously not long combos in center but barre work you can manage.

Good Luck

Answer 5

One class at a time is the best way, Many of your muscles that are used for danceing have to be reconditioned. Find a good studio near you and take a class.

Answer 6

you don't find your way back into dance, the dance finds you. start slow, think about what kind of classes you liked, studios and teachers you enjoyed learning from. maybe try an adult ballet class until you feel back in the swing of things.

Answer 7

If you want to dance, go for it, but slowly. You definately don't want to injure yourself!Try supplementary exercises such as pilates, swimming, weight and cardio training to help you get your stamina up.