Fitness, wellbeing and dance

Ballet Beginners

Have fun and keep fit while learning some basic classical ballet moves and sequences and discover some of the background and history of this wonderful dance style.

Ballet is a classical style of dance that dates back to the 17th century. The conventional steps, grace and fluidity of movement still form the foundation of ballet today along with many contemporary influences.

Ballet provides many benefits for those wishing to manage or improve fitness levels – core stability, balance skills, muscular strength and flexibility and joint mobility are all covered by the exercises and sequences in a ballet class and they form a wonderful method of using the body as a whole to improve both physical and mental wellbeing.

Who the course is for

Anyone wishing to dance for fitness and enjoyment and gain some insight into this style of dance. The course is suitable for absolute beginners.

Course location

Thomas Calton Centre, Alpha Street, SE15 4NX.

What you’ll learn

• basic ballet movements at the barre and in the centre
• short combinations of movements
• musicality and performance skills
• how ballet dance can promote mental and physical wellbeing

How the course is taught

Direct observation of learners by the tutor will ensure that movements are carried out correctly and safely. All movements and sequences can be adapted to allow for individuals’ limitations. Health and safety issues will be constantly monitored

Each session will include:

• warm-up exercises including ballet exercises at the barre
• ballet technique and choreography
• cool down exercises

Materials you’ll need

• comfortable clothes that allow for gentle movement
• full or split-soled ballet shoes with elastic or ribbons – your tutor can advise at the first session.
• a bottle of water

After the course

Try another dance or fitness course with Southwark Adult Learning such as Zumba®Fitness, Tap Dance or Fusion Fitness or further dance courses with other providers such as Morley College or City Lit.

How to enrol

Complete an enrolment form online

Find out how to enrol, locations and more about our services.

Course details

Contact information

Southwark Adult Learning Service 

• email adult.learning@southwark.gov.uk
• telephone 020 7358 2100 or 020 7358 2101

Page last updated: 02 April 2024