The College of Dance, which is this year celebrating its 25th anniversary, will be opening its studio doors once again on September 23. In addition to classes in classical ballet, jazz dance, hip hop/commercial and Spanish dance, from this term it will be introducing Ballet Blast to Malta.

Ballet Blast is a fresh new exercise concept direct from the UK, brought to our shores in a collaboration between the College of Dance and Push Studios London. Kevin Thatcher, director of Push Studios, devised the programme with the aim to create an alternative, low-impact way of exercising.

Ballet Blast is a classically based fitness programme, performed to a blast of fun and music, providing a full-body workout. Specially devised exercise, concentrating on specific muscle groups, tone and strengthen the body using techniques taught within classical ballet training.

Exercises are combined with the use of light weights for an upper-body workout to provide a complete programme that develops improved posture, core strength, control and flexibility.

Thatcher, who is an ex-professional classical dancer and is currently  a personal trainer as well as a Pilates and Zumba instructor, devised Ballet Blast for clientswho were seeking a less aggressive, low-impact form of exercise, which is beneficial  in order to maintain joint health.

The College of Dance is excited to add this new energetic and fun concept to its curriculum, which is intended for all ages and aimed at different levels of fitness. The classes will be undertaken by Nina Winter, head of classical ballet at the college and an appointed tutor of Ballet Blast from Push Studios.

For further details, contact The College of Dance on 7942 1864, 7906 8885, or e-mail collegeofdance@melita.com. The first Ballet Blast lesson is free of charge.