The Daily Courier

WHY BALLET IS THE BETTER WAY TO GET IN SHAPE

- By SIMONE ORLANDO — Contribute­d by Ballet Kelowna

Are you tired of yoga poses? Is your downward dog not all you hoped it would be? If you are looking for an alternativ­e way to get in shape this fall, Ballet Kelowna recently launched an adult ballet and Pilates program called In Motion.

With introducto­ry, beginner and intermedia­te level ballet classes, the program is designed for adults who are looking to get back into ballet, as well as absolute newbies.

Krista Clement, a medical librarian at the BC Cancer Agency, began taking Ballet Kelowna’s In Motion classes in January.

“Ballet is so important to my physical, mental and personal health because it keeps me moving, flexible, balanced, focused, calm, and connected with other people,” says Clement. “Ballet Kelowna has a wonderful airy studio and inspiring instructor­s, who remind us to enjoy the dancing along with the workout. It’s been great to have challenges and know I have improved in just these short months.”

Here’s a few reasons why ballet class trumps yoga or the gym.

You will never get bored — with hundreds of movements and positions, there is always something new to learn. Additional­ly, all the exercises are set to music, keeping you inspired and constantly moving.

You can exercise your right brain – because it is an art form, ballet is an outlet for personal expression. Creative interpreta­tion is encouraged.

You can learn from experts — all of the In Motion classes are taught by Ballet Kelowna’s profession­al dancers.

With years of training and performanc­e experience, you can learn from the pros in a fun, safe environmen­t.

You don’t have to wait in a queue or fight for space — Ballet Kelowna’s new 2,000 square foot studio is equipped with a state-of-the-art sprung dance floor and can accommodat­e an entire corps de ballet.

To ensure participan­ts have ample room to move though, In Motion class sizes are limited and multiple class times are offered.

In addition to ballet, In Motion offers adult Pilates mat classes.

“Pilates pairs perfectly with ballet, says Artistic Director and CEO Simone Orlando. “It is a whole-body workout that strengthen­s the deep core muscles that are essential to ballet. Most profession­al ballet dancers start or end their day with a Pilates regime.”

Registrati­on for the In Motion fall term is open with classes commencing on Sept. 18. For more informatio­n and to register, visit or call 250-762-6105.

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 ?? EMILY COOPER/Photo contribute­d ?? Ballet Kelowna dancer Mark Dennis teaches In Motion ballet and pilates classes.
EMILY COOPER/Photo contribute­d Ballet Kelowna dancer Mark Dennis teaches In Motion ballet and pilates classes.
 ?? Photo contribute­d ?? In Motion instructor Mark Dennis coaches Milena Perini in adult ballet class.
Photo contribute­d In Motion instructor Mark Dennis coaches Milena Perini in adult ballet class.

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