I have always believed that ballet is not only for girls, not only for the rich, and not only for the upper-class, prissy, elite members of society, as most would like to think. Ballet is really for everyone. And come to think of it, this opinion is not confined only to me. There are many others, dance and ballet authorities even, who have stated similar thoughts and ideas themselves.

Just take a look at these examples of people who you probably would not expect to be involved in ballet. Kris Tschetter, professional golf player, has stated in a Sports Illustrated interview that "I danced all through junior high and high school, then took it up again three years ago to get in better shape". Another example is the Diablo Ballet in Contra Costa, CA was started by engineers, because the founder of the company wanted to provide a place for engineers to be involved in the arts. Engineering and ballet have something in common, they say, since both use structural dynamics.

You see? Anybody can study ballet; as long as you have the will to learn. There is an increase in people's awareness that leading a good life includes leading a healthy one, thus, many people are turning to ballet for its numerous benefits. The ballet barre, or warm-up exercises to the uninitiated, provides people with an extensive routine that gets all the muscles in your body warm and working. As well as excellent cardiovascular exercises, it includes exercises which help strengthen and increase flexibility of all the major muscle groups.

You have to keep in mind, though, that ballet cannot be hurried; the learning and the benefits that come along with it involves a unhurried process. If you wish for fast results, you will probably be in for disappointment. But just have patience and attend your classes regularly, then without knowing it, you'll suddenly find yourself able to do something you weren't able to do before. Your body responds in each class with small gains which add up until you see the change.

But the benefits of ballet is not only restricted to the physical; it's also good exercise mentally. It requires a great deal of focus where your mind lets go of other thoughts. When class is over, your mind returns to the daily norm, but you will sense a clearer and more refreshed view of the world. Some friends have confided in me that this particular benefit is the one that keeps them going, despite the difficult exercises. Whenever you go to ballet class with a muddled mind and upset emotions, I walk out and my mind has cleared; the world looks like a much brighter place.

All you really need is a good pair of ballet slippers, plus a leotard and tights. Wearing these will allow the teacher to observe your body in order to give corrections and recommendations for proper postures and placement. Leave your jewelry at home, though, and if you have long hair, make sure to tie it up and keep it off your face to get a better view and avoid distractions.

So, are you interested yet? Want to know how to get involved? Go ahead and join your local ballet school today! Chances are there's a good ballet school or two in your area, with specialized courses for beginners. Some fitness centers and gyms also offer ballet classes for those who are interested. See if you can observe a class first, or you could take class as a drop-in. That way you can get a feel for what ballet class is like and what's in store for you. You can also decide if you feel comfortable with the teacher and the other students. Once you find a class you feel comfortable in, you're on your way to having a good start in ballet.