Mr. Noah, circa 2006 & 2007

Breaking Barriers: 7 Reasons Why Teens Shouldn't Be Afraid to Start Dance 

By Hannah Trulock

September 7, 2023

As a teenager, you might find yourself navigating a world filled with academic pressures, social challenges, and the constant urge to fit in. Have you always wanted to start dance, but are worried you are too late? Or might get lumped in with much younger aspiring dancers? It might seem intimidating at first, but Verity Ballet has a class especially for you. 

We are here to show you why you shouldn't be afraid to start dancing - after all, one of our Directors, Noah, started dance for the first time at age 15. 

From boosting your confidence to improving your physical fitness, dance offers a world of opportunities for teenagers.

1. Confidence Boost:

Teenage years can be tough on self-esteem. Starting dance classes at Verity Ballet can help boost your confidence in a variety of ways. You'll learn to move gracefully, express yourself through dance, and maybe even conquer some stage fright. Overcoming performance anxiety and mastering new things can do wonders for your self-assurance, both on and off the dance floor.

2. Stress Relief:

With the demands of school and social life, stress is a constant companion for many teenagers. Dance is a fantastic way to relieve stress - especially in a welcoming and encouraging environment. The physical activity involved in dancing releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. After a dance class at Verity Ballet, you'll likely find yourself feeling happier and more relaxed.

3. Improved Physical Fitness:

Dance is a full-body workout that enhances your physical fitness in various ways. It improves flexibility, strength, poise, balance, and coordination. A beginner class with peers allows you to build a healthier and more active lifestyle, at your own pace. 

4. Lifelong Friendships:

Verity Ballet's specialized teen classes provide an excellent opportunity to make new friends - or bring some friends along - who share your passion for dance. Bonding with classmates over shared experiences in class and during rehearsals can lead to lasting friendships that extend far beyond the studio.

5. Discipline and Time Management:

Dance requires dedication, discipline, and time management skills. By committing to your dance classes and practicing regularly, you'll develop valuable life skills that will benefit you in other aspects of your life, such as academics and future careers.

6. Goal Achievement:

Setting and achieving dance goals can be incredibly rewarding. Whether it's mastering a challenging step, earning a spot in a performance, or even pursuing a professional dance career, Verity Ballet can help you set and accomplish your goals, teaching you the value of hard work and perseverance.

7. Positive Role Models in Formative Years:

We all know teens and young adults try to be most like those they look up to. Teens often mimic the behaviors and attitudes of those around them, for good or bad - whether that be their friends, peers, or authority figures. That's why it's so important to surround your teen with those you can trust. At Verity Ballet, we have a controlled and safe environment, with a zero-tolerance bullying policy (no matter how good of a dancer you are!), and a list of character principles to aspire towards. Teens are still developing their sense of self, and sometimes that can be fragile. A nurturing environment is the way to go.

In a world filled with uncertainties and teenage challenges, dance at Verity Ballet offers a safe and rewarding haven for teenagers. Don't be afraid to take that first step onto the dance floor. Embrace the opportunity to build confidence, relieve stress, improve fitness, make friends, and unlock your creative potential. Starting dance as a teenager can be a life-changing experience that sets you on a path of joy, growth, and fulfillment. Read some of our testimonials and see for yourself: