written by andrew  on 21.08. at 03:37:16

*****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