Ballet and Athletics: An Unlikely But Effective Match

The interesting intersection between ballet training and professional athletics is a largely untapped resource in most athlete training regimens. But why? The existing barriers are usually a lack of knowledge about the benefits and how to incorporate it, or traditional notions about what an effective athlete training program comprises.

What Can Ballet Training Offer to Athletes?

Often, people see ballet as a purely artistic pursuit rather than as a form of athletic training. However, ballet dancers, much like athletes, require supreme physical fitness, agility, flexibility, poise and balance—all of which are skills that can be readily transferred to other sports. Particularly, the extensive barre work has been found to enhance flexibility, stability, endurance, and leg strength.

Real-life Examples

Let's take some examples. Former professional footballer, Steve McLendon, incorporated ballet into his training regimen and saw significant improvements in his performance. He reported that ballet helped him with strength, conditioning, balance and discipline—elements that have proven crucial to his success in the NFL. Similarly, MMA fighter, Ronda Rousey, has also trained in ballet to enhance her flexibility and agility.

Physiological Benefits

Research has shown that ballet enhances not only physical capacity but also mental resilience. The need for intense concentration, interpretation and memory during movement sequences can improve cognitive abilities. Physiologically, ballet training helps in improving posture, reducing the risk of injury, increasing longevity in the sport and promoting formidable core strength.

Psychological Benefits

Unlike traditional sport training methods, ballet also offers certain unique psychological benefits. Ballet improves body awareness and control, in turn boosting confidence—a key factor in an athlete’s performance and success. Ballet further assists in stress reduction, mindfulness and improved concentration.