Historically, ballet has often favored a specific body type characterized by thinness and specific proportions.
Traditionally Favored Body Type in Ballet
Based on historical preferences within ballet, the typically favored body type for a dancer has been described as that of a girl who is thin, usually thinner than what is deemed to be healthy, with long, lean limbs, an extremely flat front side, and little to no curves throughout the body other than a small waistline.
This traditional ideal emphasizes:
- Thinness: Often leaner than what is considered healthy.
- Long, Lean Limbs: Arms and legs that appear elongated and slender.
- Flat Front Side: A minimal chest and abdominal area.
- Minimal Curves: A generally straight physique with the exception of a small waist.
These characteristics were historically sought after for aesthetic reasons and for the technical demands placed on dancers in certain classical repertoire, although perspectives and ideals are evolving in contemporary ballet.
