Joffrey Ballet School's Ballet-Fit

The world-renowned Joffrey Ballet School makes the art and joy of ballet available to everyone.

Let Dena Simone Moss and Allison Kyle Leopold teach you everything you need to know to get in shape, beautifully sculpt your body, and truly appreciate the art of ballet. They'll let you in on all their secrets, including:

-A demystifying explanation of ballet terms and positions

-Tips on finding the right instructor and studio-and feeling comfortable once you're there

-Hints on ballet attire-including finding, choosing, and tying pointe shoes

-An exhaustive directory of where to find ballet publications, audio and videotapes, books, dance wear, schools, and studios.

Perfect for the beginner and the veteran balletomane, The Joffrey Ballet School's Ballet-Fit offers an inside glimpse into the mysterious and beautiful world of ballet.

Not only are ballet dancers in killer shape; they have some of the most enviable physiques around. The Jofferys School's Book of Ballet Fitness offers a step-by-step program for getting in shape with exercises that tone and build strength and flexibility. Illustrated with gorgeous photos of dancers.

Library Journal

Ballet dancers are different from you and me. They start taking class in childhood and continue throughout their professional careers and often into retirement. They devote years to study, rehearsal, and practice. This book is for the rest of us. The authors, a Joffrey Ballet School instructor and a magazine editor who is a ballet student, have designed it for those "not heading for a performing career but...pursuing ballet with the...goals of fitness, relaxation, and pleasure in mind." Aimed at the adult beginner, it provides sensible advice and clear explanations of what to expect in and from a ballet class. The language of ballet is translated into lay terms and the movements are described in words and photographs. There is a step-by-step outline of a home ballet workout, a discussion of pointe work, and a chapter of frequently asked adult ballet questions. A "Ballet Fitness Source Directory" highlights publications, audiovisual materials, dancewear and footwear suppliers, schools receptive to adult students, and more. Highly recommended for all public libraries.--Carolyn M. Mulac, Chicago P.L.

Dena Simone Moss is an attorney and teacher at the Joffrey Ballet School.

Allison Kyle Leopold is a magazine editor and ballet student. Both live in New York City.