Odell Beckham Jr. was among the first NFL players to apply ballet as part of their training regime in 2016. He worked with Jared Angle, a principal dancer, and choreographer at New York City Ballet, to hone his agility and footwork skills.
Other NFL star athletes such as George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers, Julian Edelman from the New England Patriots, and Antonio Brown of the Pittsburgh Steelers have all incorporated ballet into their training regimen.
Football players can reap great rewards from ballet due to the high focus on control and precision in movement. While dancing, these athletes must be able to maneuver their feet, legs, and hips with accuracy while also ensuring a sturdy core.
Not only can ballet improve your control and accuracy, but it also helps football players become stronger and more flexible. By holding various positions for an extended amount of time during the exercises, you will build up muscular strength as well as stamina.
Ballet offers football players the advantage of elevating their body awareness and coordination. The art form requires dancers to be continuously aware of each part of their body, as well as coordinate movements with both music and other dancers.
Ballet is not typically associated with football, yet it has been an invaluable training resource for many NFL athletes. Ballet enhances strength, agility, control, and coordination – all essential aspects of the game. The next time you witness a skillful spin or agile change of direction during a match-up.