You are starting your ballet journey, and we’re so glad to welcome you!
This guide will help you feel comfortable, confident, and ready for your first day.
Ideally, it’s good to wear fitted, stretchy clothing such as leggings, tights, and a comfortable top or bottom that allow free movement. That said, it’s really about your comfort level—baggy or relaxed fits work too if that helps you feel at ease.
Traditionally, ballet attire consists of pink ballet tights (specialized tights that gently compress, shape the legs, and support circulation) and a leotard (traditionally black, pink, white, or another color). A skirt is optional, but it’s often best to start without one—or choose a very sheer skirt—so your teacher can easily see your posture and alignment. This classic outfit can really help set the mood and make you feel part of the ballet world. However, if that doesn’t feel like “you,” no worries—leggings, shorts, sweatpants, or other comfortable clothing are perfectly fine.
Layering: Many dancers also start class with warm layers such as sweatpants, sweaters, or legwarmers, and gradually remove them as their muscles warm up, that is why if you look at photos or videos of ballet dancers, unless is a school with a strict uniform policy (typically for kids and teens) you can see all sorts of outfits on dancers.
Ballet slippers are ideal, but if you’re just starting out, socks work perfectly well for the first few weeks.
If you don’t yet have ballet gear, that’s absolutely fine—we’ll help guide you when you’re ready. You can also check out our Ballet Slippers Guide for more details.
If you don’t yet have ballet gear, that is perfectly fine, we’ll help guide you when you’re ready.
We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early so you have time to settle in and prepare yourself mentally and physically. If the studio is open and not in use, feel free to begin warming up quietly. You can also do so outside in the waiting area.
Studios are equipped with:
Trying something new can feel intimidating—but you’re not alone. Many of your classmates are stepping into the studio for the first time too. Within moments, you’ll feel welcome, supported, and ready to move.
This level is taught by Maria Osende and Marel Eager, both of whom bring decades of experience and a special love for adult beginner dancers. They will guide you step-by-step, helping you build confidence and skill throughout your ballet journey.
Ballet is beautiful and well-structured, which is why our beginner courses follow a progressive weekly program that allows you to build skills steadily and safely by introducing foundational concepts such as proper posture and alignment, external rotation and how to apply it, and the coordination of strength and flexibility working in harmony—helping your body adapt gradually while improving comfort, body awareness, and confidence.
To make the most of your ballet journey, especially as an adult beginner, keep these tips in mind:
Ask for Help in Class
Don’t be shy! If something feels unclear or too fast, ask your teacher to go over it again — that’s what class is for.
Show Up Regularly
Progress in ballet comes from consistency. Weekly attendance helps you build confidence and retain what you’ve learned.
Practice a Little, Often
Even 5–10 minutes a day can help reinforce technique and build muscle memory, especially early on.
Stay in Touch with Your Teacher
If you’re feeling stuck or need a bit of encouragement, your teacher is there to support you — just reach out.
Focus on Yourself
Everyone learns at a different pace. Don’t compare yourself to others; instead, notice how you are growing.
Celebrate the Small Wins
You’re learning something beautiful and challenging. Be kind to yourself and enjoy each step forward
A complete beginner ballet course designed for adults with no dance experience. Includes 16 recorded Zoom classes plus a warm-up video. Learn the five feet and arm positions, correct posture, turnout, and classic movements like plié, tendu, jeté, and développé. Gentle, detailed, and perfect for learning ballet at home.
These videos are designed for our students to review and practice.
Support Material for Adult Ballet Beginners
A step-by-step guide to learning ballet! Master the names of the steps and positions, understand correct posture, and build a strong foundation for strength, flexibility, and confidence. Illustrated examples make it easy to follow and practice.
June 2025 Student Showcase
My favourite time of the year—when friendships shine, excitement fills the air, and the joy of dancing brings us all together. I’m so proud of each and every one of my students. ¡Olé!
Photos by ©Carl Willis
I’m so proud of my students! In June 2025, we held our very first Adult Ballet Student Showcase. Ballet Beyond by Osende Dance Arts. Photos © Paul Dunphy
Find the perfect ballet slippers in Halifax! Explore local and online options, learn the differences between full and split soles, leather vs. canvas, and tips for beginners. Start your ballet journey today
Discover the Magic of Ballet: Unleash Your Inner Dancer! In-person and On-Demand Ballet for Adults
Already know the basics? Join Our Weekly Beginner Plus ballet classes for adults.
What is a Ballet Barre?
