It is never too late to start ballet. More adults than ever are taking it up for fitness, posture, grace and pure enjoyment, and you do not need years of childhood training to begin. Here is what to wear, what to expect, and how to feel comfortable walking into your first adult ballet class.
It really is never too late
Adult beginner ballet is one of the fastest growing areas in dance. Studios across Australia run classes designed for adults starting from scratch, and the atmosphere is welcoming and pressure free. You are there to learn and enjoy it, not to audition for a company. If you have been curious, that is reason enough to start.
What to wear to adult ballet
Adults have far more flexibility in what they wear than young students in uniform. The only real rule is fitted clothing that lets you move freely and lets the teacher see your alignment. A comfortable starting kit looks like:
- A fitted top or a leotard, whatever you feel good in.
- Leggings, fitted shorts or footless tights from our shorts, leggings and pants range, or full ballet tights.
- Soft ballet shoes in leather or canvas.
- A wrap top or warm up for the start of class, especially in winter.
Our Pilates and barre range also works beautifully for adult ballet and barre style classes.
The shoes you need
Soft ballet shoes are all you need to begin. They come in leather, which is hard wearing, or canvas, which is light and breathable, in full or split sole. They should fit snugly with your toes flat, not curled. Pointe work comes much later and only with a teacher's guidance, so there is no need to think about pointe shoes as a beginner. If you are unsure on fit, pop into our Clyde North store and we will size you properly.
What to expect in your first class
Most classes start at the barre for warm up and basic exercises, then move into the centre for simple steps and combinations. Your teacher will not expect you to know the moves. Everyone in a beginner class is learning, and nobody is watching you the way you imagine. Go at your own pace, ask questions, and give yourself permission to be a beginner. That is the whole point.
Finding a class, and getting kitted out
Total Dance is a specialist dancewear store, not a dance school, so your local studio is the place to find an adult beginner class. What we can do is make sure you walk in with the right gear and the confidence that comes with it. Shop online, or visit our Clyde North store where we fit adult dancers every week.
Get kitted out for your first adult ballet class, with fitting help from real dancers.
Shop ballet shoes Shop leotards and topsFrequently asked questions
Can adults start ballet?
Absolutely. Adults of any age can start ballet. Studios across Australia run beginner classes designed specifically for adults, with no previous experience needed.
What do adults wear to a ballet class?
Fitted clothing you can move in: a leotard or fitted top with leggings, shorts or tights, plus soft ballet shoes. Adults have much more freedom in dress code than young students in uniform.
Do adults need a leotard for ballet?
Not necessarily. Many adult dancers wear a fitted top with leggings or shorts instead. The main thing is that the clothing is close fitting so the teacher can see your alignment.
What shoes do adult ballet beginners need?
Soft ballet shoes in leather or canvas, full or split sole, fitted snugly with the toes flat. Pointe shoes are not for beginners and come only much later with a teacher's guidance.
Is ballet good exercise for adults?
Yes. Ballet builds strength, flexibility, posture and balance, and it is low impact when done well. Many adults find it as good for the mind as it is for the body.
