![]() the male dancer
written by andrew ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() >I love that kind of bouncy jumping but it seems to over develop the calfs.>Do you agree with this - or is my perception of Irish Step dancing in error? *****In Irish, you're dancing on the balls of your feet and always off your heels-so you don't use the whole foot like ballet. I think you're right although I've never really talked to anyone about the calves issue (never came up). I have very defined/muscular calves and I just figured that was ok for ballet since no one has commented on them. But, here I am only 2 years into ballet so no one is really looking at me seriously yet anyway. I think, since you mention it, Irish does contribute to large/over developed calves, you're constantly using them/your legs rather than your whole body like ballet. When I first started Irish, my calves hurt so much it was hard to walk after class and practice/following days. I had to find street shoes with a slight heel or not be able to walk without major pain. They killed (understatement). It took several years to get over that stuff, so I think I paid my dues then. Now I have no problem with ballet, I have a great turnout (esp. for a guy) and my feet are well cambered, nice arch, flexible, never have ankle sprains, etc. So I think in some ways the Irish paid off, but if you're a ballet pro going to Irish, not sure how you'll adapt to it. Good luck, I had to stop merely due to the travel time and expense. I love Irish, maybe next year will return once I finish school. Andy Answers to this message: |