Ballet and Running

Wednesday evening I donned on my pink tights, my leotard, and put my hair up in a bun. I put my makeup on and stretched for a while before heading off to ballet. This was my first class in a year. I put it on the back burner for many reasons but finally have the time, the drive, and spare cash to attend.

I have to say that running did ruin my ballet. My ballet brain was slow, my feet hurt and kept cramping up, and I couldn't lift my leg as high as I could before the marathon. It was depressing and humbling. I need a lot of practice to reach the level I left. By running I'm constantly pounding and tightening my leg muscles where ballet strengthen and lengthens, the total opposite of running. Stretching, another reason why I went back. I need to do more stretching to prevent another injury.

It was great to stand by the bar listening to the perfectly metered ballet music; the french terms and instructions over the music. Tendus, piles, frappes, degages, fondue, passe; in first, in second, in fourth, in fifth; releve; balance, just to name a few.

It was great to see my ballet instructor Zinnia again. I've missed her pleasant smile and encouraging words. It was great seeing old friends and seeing how much they've improved since I've last seen them. Hugs and smiles all around. I'll be back next week.