Finding Your Place in Adult Ballet: Your Path, Your Pace
/By Lee Harrison, Director of the Adult Ballet Centre
At the Adult Ballet Centre, we’ve had the privilege of guiding hundreds of adult dancers—some walking into the studio for the very first time, others returning after decades away. Over eight years, we’ve discovered something essential:
There’s no one way to dance. There’s only your way.
Whether you’re here for joy, technique, transformation, or expression, we want you to know this: you belong here. Understanding the two main paths and profiles of adult ballet can help you find the approach that best suits you.
🌱 Two Beautiful Ballet Journeys: Training vs. Recreational
Adult ballet classes at ABC generally fall into one of two intentional styles:
1. Training Ballet Classes
These classes are for dancers who want to:
Improve classical ballet technique
Build strength, alignment, and flexibility
Work toward pointe preparation, exams, or showcases
Receive detailed coaching and corrections from expert instructors
Training classes follow a structured format, designed to help you progress through our ABC Levels or prepare for performance opportunities.
“I started training with ABC to get fit again, but I’ve ended up falling in love with the art form all over again. The teachers are supportive, but they push you to grow in the best way.” – Michelle, Level 5 dancer
2. Recreational Ballet Classes
These are ideal for those who:
Want a relaxed, joyful experience
Dance for fitness, self-expression, and peace of mind
Need flexibility in scheduling or intensity
Prefer optional feedback and a no-pressure environment
These classes are open to all levels and focus on the sheer joy of movement.
“After work, I just want to feel good and move. ABC’s recreational classes are like therapy for my soul.” – Sarah, recreational class member
Who Our Dancers Are
We also see two recurring profiles of adult ballet dancers—each with their path into the studio:
The Returning Dancer
These dancers trained when they were younger and are now rediscovering ballet as adults. They may remember the discipline and beauty of classical training and want to reconnect with it, but often feel nervous about their current abilities.
They thrive in:
Level 2 and up Ballet Progression classes
Training Stream classes with structured corrections
Showcase or exam preparation groups
“I thought I had missed my chance. Coming back to ballet felt scary, but ABC welcomed me exactly where I was. I’ve grown more in six months than I thought possible.” – Lillian, returning dancer
The Brand-New Adult Beginner
No prior experience. No pointe shoes in childhood. Just a spark of curiosity—and courage.
Many of our new adult dancers start with:
Introduction to Classical Ballet
Level 1 Ballet for foundational technique
Recreational classes for fitness and joy
“I was 42 when I took my first ballet class ever. ABC’s Intro Course changed how I see myself. Now I’m in Level 3 and never imagined I’d love it this much.” – Dana, beginner dancer
Understanding Corrections and Coaching
In training classes, corrections are:
Frequent and detailed
Focused on technical growth
Collaborative and encouraging
In recreational classes, corrections are:
Gentle and optional
Offered when desired or requested
Supportive, never overwhelming
Whether you want to refine every tendu or enjoy your port de bras, you’ll be met with the right level of guidance for your goals.
Your Path, Your Pace
There is no “better” path—just the one that aligns with where you are and what you need. Many dancers move between both styles throughout their journey.
Want feedback and structure? Join our training classes.
Want freedom and flow? Step into a recreational class.
Want a little of both? That’s often where the magic happens.
Ready to Begin?
Let’s find your perfect starting point. Whether you’re new to ballet or stepping back into the studio after years away, we’ll guide you into the right level and style.
🔗 Explore our current ballet class schedule
🔗 Book your trial class or intro consult
🔗 Discover the correct class level for you
