Whether you've had some dancing experience, or you want to add new steps to your workout, ballet may improve your balance, poise and muscle strength. Although you're unlikely to have a tutu and pointe shoes at home, wearing socks and comfortable clothing will do. Before starting any type of new workout, consult your doctor, particularly if you have health problems.
Ballet Twist
The ballet twist is an ab-strengthening, ballet-inspired exercise recommended by "Fitness" in the article "Our Top 10 Abs Exercises." "Fitness" suggests placing a yoga mat or towel on the floor, then sitting with your legs straight out in front of you, pressed against one another. Lean back about 45 degrees, then lift both arms over your head gracefully like a ballet dancer. As you lean back, place your right elbow and forearm on the floor to brace yourself while you lean even farther back to your right, keeping your left arm extended for three counts. Shift your body weight, without moving your buttocks, to the left side of your body as you lift your right arm over your head and place your left elbow and forearm on the mat. As you come back up to a sitting position, lift both your arms over your head and lift your torso up with your spine. Repeat six times starting on the right side, and then repeat another six times, starting with the left side, recommends "Fitness."
Passe Lifts
In the article "7 Tummy Toning Exercises," "Women's Day" suggests using ballet-inspired moves to tone your obliques. Place your hands above your head and bend your elbows slightly, making a large circle that frames your head. Stand on both feet, and then lift your left leg, bending it outward so your knee faces the wall to your left. Rest your left foot against the bottom of your right shin, just above your right ankle. Carefully bend your waist while trying to touch your left elbow to your left kneecap. Lift both your bent leg and lower your bent elbow to achieve this. Stretch as far as you can, then bring your raised arms back to center and your left foot back to its position resting on your right shin. Repeat 10 times, then switch sides and repeat 10 more times while standing on the left leg.
Grand Plie
Practicing grand plies will help strengthen the abdominal muscles and tone the thighs. Stand arm's length away from a ballet barre. If you don't have a ballet barre, use your kitchen counter top. Hold the barre or counter top with your left hand and place your legs as close to one another as possible. Turn your toes out so they make a "V." While holding the barre, extend your right hand straight out to your right side, keeping your palm up. Bend your knees slightly, maintaining the "V" shape with your feet as you lift your right arm to a 45-degree angle with your body, and face your palm down toward the ground. Bend your knees as far as you can while swooping your right arm down toward the floor. As you lift your body and legs back up to the starting position, lift your right arm up as if it were connected with your belly button. When you return to a standing position with your knees straight, lift your right arm above your head and return it to the starting position.
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