>>I am a 44 years old male, do you seriously think that I am too old to learn ballet?  Are there any steps that i will not be able to do. >Hey...haven't you heard that age is relative?  The more important question is what king of shape are you in?>When I taught, I had several "older" men and women in my classes.  They were vital and active people.  One studio I take classes at has two guys who are fifty and older, and they do fine.>If you're in overall good shape, then you can ballet.  If you've been "cardiovascularly" good (e.g. can run up a flight or two of stairs without getting out of breath), then that's good.  On the other hand, if you have any medical problems you should probably ask your doctor for a complete evaluation.  It'd probably be best to have a complete medical evaluation at age 44 anyways (including that dreaded prostate exam).>The second question about "shape" is what kind of shape are your joints in?  Have you had any bad sprains and/or fractures that may have left problems with the joints?  I knew a guy who couldn't return to ballet after a bad ankle fracture because of its instability.>The third question about "shape" is are you overweight?  Excess weight make your heart work more, and can slow you down.  The blood doesn't flow as well to your muscles.  Loose weight first.>The fourth question about "shape" involves your endurance and determination.  Most ballet classes continue for more than an hour.  Although they say ballet is not very aerobic, and there's time between exercises to rest, some classes can be very taxing on the body.  And determination is necessary.  You must set your mind to continue through all the class work and not poop out.>Once you get into class, there are things that can slow your progress down.  There are specific things you can do to remember exercises, NOT to have to look-down and follow someone else, etc.  Leave your e-mail and I'll tell you more about those.>You said ">Please be very honest, I do not want to waste my time and effort if that is the case. I do not care what others think, just advise me. >Thanks">I've tried to be honest, but in truth, your ability to succeed in ballet will depend on your physical and mental status.>There are some ballet classes and some ballet teachers where you can dance for fun, without emphasis on improving. I often see middle-aged women in classes who are there so they can tell their fellow soccer moms they take ballet class.  You could find such a "low key" studio to start with, but if you have always wanted to do ballet and do it right, find a more serious class.  Don't be afraid to move around to different studios either until you find the right class at the right level for you.>Try it!  BalletMaster>