Get A Dancer's Body

This ballet-inspired workout will tone you from head to toe (no tutu required)

November 3, 2011

Almost everyone has envied the long, lean look of a ballerina. This dancer's body workout routine will help you build strong, flexible muscles and leave you feeling more graceful than a typical gym workout would. It works by generating small, controlled movements designed to isolate and challenge muscles without stressing your joints, explains Elisabeth Halfpapp, an exercise instructor at Exhale spa in New York City who created this workout. (Halfpapp should know: She's a former professional ballet dancer.) 

[sidebar]All you need for this dancer's body workout is a sturdy chair or countertop to hold on to and a mat, towel, or carpeted surface. Warm up by marching in place 100 times as you swing your arms. Do this total-body-toning workout at least three times a week. Turn on some classical music as accompaniment and you'll really feel like a dancer.



Shapes thighs and calves 

A. Place both palms on chair or counter, but don't put your weight on it. Pull abs in, tuck pelvis, extend left leg directly behind right leg, and point toes.

B. Lift left leg out to side, keeping right hip down and both hips facing forward. Do three sets of 20 reps. Repeat with right leg.