What I Wish Someone Had Told Me —— Tips for Ballet Beginners

Welcome to the 5th edition of the Fla Ballet Blog!

This issue features an interview with former English National Ballet principal dancer Alina, curated and written by Fla Ballet's blog content editor, Yohana.

Introduction:

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably thought about starting ballet as an adult. Maybe you’ve watched a performance and felt that pull—something deep down that says, “I want to do that.” Maybe you've signed up for a class, or you're still wondering if it's "too late." I’ll be honest with you: starting ballet as an adult is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. But no one’s going to sugar-coat it for you. Ballet is hard work. And it takes time.

Here’s what I wish someone had told me when I first started—and I’m going to tell you exactly what you need to know.

1. Embrace the Beginner Mindset—You’re Not Behind

One of the first things I’ll tell you is this: you’re not behind. In fact, you’re exactly where you need to be. Ballet is often seen as something for kids, or for professional dancers who started young. But the truth is, adult beginners are everywhere. We all start from the same place: zero. And that's okay. The beauty of ballet, especially as an adult, is that you're in control of your own journey.

It’s easy to feel frustrated or discouraged when your body doesn’t move the way you want it to, but give yourself the grace to be a beginner. Every grand jeté started with a simple plié, and that’s your foundation. Stick with it.

2. Quality Gear Isn’t Just About Style—It’s About Comfort

I’ve spent years training in everything from cheap store-brand tights to high-end ballet apparel. Trust me when I say, what you wear matters. Sure, ballet’s all about form, but your gear is about function. Ill-fitting shoes, tight leotards, and uncomfortable tights will only distract you from what you’re learning.

You don’t need a closet full of expensive ballet wear, but invest in a few pieces that fit well and make you feel comfortable. At Fla Ballet, we’ve designed gear that blends form and function—perfect for adult beginners. Our apparel isn’t just stylish (though we think it is), it’s made to move with you, supporting your every plié, stretch, and jump. You’ll need a solid pair of ballet shoes that fit just right, breathable tights, and a leotard that lets you move freely. Comfort is key to staying motivated.

3. Understand That It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint

One of the hardest things to accept in ballet is the slow pace of progress. As an adult beginner, you may want to rush—jump ahead to more advanced steps or push yourself too hard. But here’s the reality: ballet is about consistent, steady work. Progress is incremental.

You’re building muscle memory, flexibility, strength, and coordination all at once. None of it comes fast. Don’t be discouraged when you can’t do a perfect pirouette in your first few months (or even your first year). Celebrate every small improvement. I remember the first time I could hold a position for longer than 10 seconds without shaking—it was a big deal.

4. Find a Teacher Who Can Speak Your Language

Not every ballet teacher is right for every student. Some instructors are great for kids, others excel with adult beginners. As an adult, you need someone who understands your body’s limitations and strengths. Look for a teacher who speaks directly to you—not just in terms of technique, but also your personal goals. A great teacher will guide you through the fundamentals while ensuring that you don't injure yourself by overextending.

And remember: It’s okay to change teachers if the first one isn’t a good fit. The right instructor will help you see the beauty in the basics and help you fall in love with ballet itself.

5. The "Ballet Body" Myth Is Just That: A Myth

There’s a lot of pressure to look a certain way in ballet. You might think you need to have a specific body type to be good at it. But here’s the truth: ballet is for every body.

I’ve seen dancers of all shapes, sizes, and ages thrive in ballet. What matters most is dedication and technique—not the number on the scale. Ballet is about expressing yourself through movement, not conforming to a set standard of physical appearance. If you feel good in your body and you’re willing to put in the effort, your body is exactly the right body for ballet.

6. Community is Just as Important as the Dance

One thing that kept me going through my early years in ballet was the community. The people who understood what I was going through—the same frustrations, the same victories. Whether it’s in a local class, online, or through social media groups, find your tribe. Ballet can feel lonely at times, but you're not alone. There are other adult learners who will cheer you on, share tips, and even vent with you when the going gets tough.

At Fla Ballet, we believe in the power of the ballet community—of sharing stories, celebrating wins, and supporting each other. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and always be open to learning from others.

Conclusion: Stay Focused on Your Why

So, why ballet? If it’s for fitness, creativity, self-expression, or just for fun—keep that why in front of you. There are going to be tough days when you don’t want to go to class, when you feel like you’re not improving fast enough. But on those days, remember why you started this journey in the first place. Keep showing up. Keep practicing.

Ballet is one of those things that gives back exactly what you put in—and then some. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.

And remember: You’ve got this.