Ballet-or a ballet-inspired fitness class-will not only build flexibility and strength but also provide a mild to moderate cardiovascular workout that burns about the same number of calories as a brisk walk, says Anne Marie Miller, co-developer of the New York City Ballet Workout. "It's great for variety or a recovery day workout," she says. "You'll at least meet the minimum requirements for reducing cardiovascular risks, and if you do it on a regular basis and at a vigorous pace, you could see improvement."

Even if you can't make it to class, you still can try out some allegro (fast) moves at home. Here are three to get you started:

1. Echappe sauté (a jumping movement, escaping): Start in first position, with your heels together and toes facing outward, so that your feet are in the shape of a wide V. Bend your knees (a plié) and jump to land in a plié in second position, with your feet turned outward and your legs about shoulder-width apart. Make sure to keep your back straight and your buttocks tucked in. Jump back to first position again, landing in a plié.

2. Pas de chat (step of the cat): Start in first position. Plié. Bend your knee to bring your right toe to touch your left knee. Jump onto your right foot landing in plié, switching legs so that your left toe is now touching your right knee. Bring your left foot back into first position. Reverse.

3. Assemble (assembling movement): Start in first position. Plié. Brush your right foot forward, keeping your leg turned out with your toe pointed. Push off your left leg and jump bringing feet together in the air. Land in a plié in first position. Reverse.

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written by Alex (Dria), March 16, 2007

I am 12 years old and I was looking up on the web to see what sport you sweat the most in,(pariculerly ballet), and I came across this website. Since I am in ballet I got interseted in it. Ballet does really make a GREAT workout.(coming from a 12 year old). I do ballet 5 days a week for about 3 hours each day. I think if more people did ballet regularlly(like I do) they wouldn't have to worry about going on diets and missing their favorie foods.(^: