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Ballet, tap and contemporary for beginners

These three are the classic stage dance forms, taught in graded syllabuses to children and adults. Adult beginner classes are now common.

Last updated 2 November 2026

Ballet

Ballet is a highly structured technique that underpins much of dance. Class follows a set pattern: barre work (holding a rail) for warm-up and technique, centre work without the barre, then movement across the floor.

Adult beginner ballet

Adult beginner classes teach the basic positions of the feet and arms, simple steps and posture, using French terms such as plie (bend) and tendu (stretch). You do not need to be flexible. Ballet builds posture, balance, core strength and control. Wear fitted clothes so the teacher can see your alignment, and soft ballet shoes or clean socks.

Pointe work

Dancing on pointe, in special shoes, is advanced and needs strength, training and a teacher's guidance. Beginners and adults should not attempt it without proper instruction.

Tap

Tap dancing makes rhythm with the feet, using shoes with metal plates on the toes and heels. It's about musicality and clear sound, as well as steps like shuffles, flaps and ball changes.

Classes begin with basic sounds and a short routine. Tap is a good workout for coordination and memory, and it is playful. Many adult beginners find it addictive. Tap shoes are needed for most classes, and your teacher can advise on fit. Tap on a suitable wooden floor, not on a carpet or a floor you do not want scratched.

Contemporary

Contemporary dance blends elements of ballet, modern and other techniques into expressive, flowing movement. Floor work, weight transfer and improvisation are common. It's often danced barefoot or in socks.

Contemporary suits those who enjoy creativity and expression. Classes can be gentle or athletic, and there is no single set of steps.

Jazz and musical theatre

Often grouped with these, jazz classes are punchy and theatrical, with high kicks and turns, and musical theatre classes combine dance, singing and acting.

Which to try first?

Children and syllabuses

Children often start ballet and tap in graded classes following syllabuses from exam boards such as the RAD (ballet) and IDTA. Read the brief overview on our exam boards page. Adults can also take part in exams and awards if they wish.

Safety and injury

Warm up properly, never push through sharp pain, and tell your teacher about any injuries. If you have concerns about your joints or health, consult your GP or physio.

What to wear

See what to wear for each style. To find a class, read finding a dance class.

A sample beginner ballet class

1. Gentle warm-up and feet exercises.
2. Barre: pliés, tendus and balance work.
3. Centre: simple port de bras (arm movements) and posture.
4. Across the floor: walks, small jumps and turns.
5. Cool-down stretch.

Expect to repeat the same exercises each week. That repetition is how technique builds.

Adults starting late

Starting as an adult is different from training as a child. You will not be aiming for a professional career, so enjoy the posture, music and discipline. Be patient with turnout and balance, which take time, and never force your joints. A good teacher will adapt exercises for stiff hips or old injuries.

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