>Mancer gave some very good advice.>However, I would suggest you take an introduction to ballet and yoga at the same time. It's important to learn the basics of ballet when you're most interested in it, and you sound like you've made the committment to start ballet now....so start ballet now.>I've had lots of friends who say "Oh I just want to loose a few pounds before starting (or re-starting) ballet," and they never seem to get into (or back into) classes.>Why do I say both at the same time? Yoga is a self-imposed discipline; Ballet is an externally-imposed discipline. You need both forces working for you.>The balletmaster-drill seargent will make you focus to perform the exercises; the yoga will help you internalize the concept of movement. (I'm trying to keep this simple, so forgive me if I over-simplify.) My problem with learning yoga years ago was that I couldn't internalize and direct the movement from within; the balletmaster made me understand the movement and made me focus on the dance. Now years later I can appreciate the combination of ballet and yoga I've been able to achieve.>Both would help direct you in your diet changes, too!>Whatever you select, please keep in touch. Let us know what you decide.>balletboy[/i]