written by   on 04.07. at 10:56:01

>>and helpfully build up muscle strength.

Another excellent reason - it certainly does that, and comparatively painlessly too. (You concentrate so hard on what you're doing, you don't have time to notice whether or not your muscles are complaining.)

>>Although I have a few concerns and do not know if I should or not.

Simple answer - yes. I had my concerns too, but now I wish I'd started when I was your age. It's tremendous fun, and your body will love it too.

>>First of all I am 6 ft. tall, wear a size 14 mens' shoe and weigh about 180 lbs.

I'm 6'2", I've got enormous paws, and I weigh about the same.(i) Height: yes it does make it harder (6" is quite big for 13!?!), for mechanical reasons; but ballet will give you excellent physical control. I imagine you've got a few more inches to grow yet, so it's a good idea to start now, and learn the reflexes before you reach full size.(ii) Feet: I've discovered it's quite handy to have large feet, as you rely on "rolling down" through them to give you a soft landing after every jump. That way you protect your joints. If you can develop strong calf muscles you'll be able to get that much extra spring, too, without having to plie so far before jumping.(iii) Weight: Doesn't seem to matter either way; and 180lb (81kg?) sounds fine for your height?

>>I am also unsure if my friendz and the kids in the class will accept it.

Depending on where you attend classes, they may not even need to know. But so far all the responses I've had from people have been great. If you play other sports, there won't be any problem anyway - but even if you don't, who cares? If anyone gives you a hard time, learn to shrug it off (if someone's going to take the mickey, they'll find any reason, even if you don't do ballet.) Besides, you're probably bigger than them ;-)

>Is there anyone out there with advice

Go for it!

Good luck

Anthony