BEGINNER
An introductory class that teaches the fundamentals of Rhythmic Gymnastics and Ballet. Students will be guided through stretching, ballet, acrobatics and rhythmic gymnastics body technique. Aspiring gymnasts in this class will learn how to use hand-held apparatus; rope, hoop, ball and ribbon. Strong emphasis is placed on developing a solid foundation for future, more difficult apparatus handling, ballet technique and compulsory rhythmic gymnastics routines. Beginners train between 1 and 3 hours per week. Big Apple supplies all apparatus. Students will continue in the Beginner class until she has been evaluated as having "mastered" the skills for this group. At the conclusion of the year all gymnasts will perform in our Annual Gymnastics & Dance Gala in order to present the results of their fine work to family, friends and members of the community.
This class is open to gymnasts of all levels of ability.

BIG APPLE RG'S FUTURE STARS
Designed for students with previous gymnastics or dance experience who demonstrate the ability and desire to train at a more challenging level. Our Future Stars classes begin with an intense warm-up session that emphasizes strength, flexibility and form. Students will be taught advanced barre routines as part of the ballet training that is instrumental to the success of a rhythmic gymnast. In addition to the apparatus introduced in our "Beginner" program, the use of clubs is introduced. Gymnasts in this program will learn several short routines set to music using all five pieces of equipment. Students in this program attend two, 90-minute classes per week. "Future Star" gymnasts are given the opportunity to perform at our Annual Gymnastics & Dance Gala each June.
Entrance into our Future Stars class is by invitation or tryout only.

Ballet
Ballet is the classical dance form that can be mastered by itself or used as a technical base or supplement to other dance forms. Basic positions of the feet and arms, proper alignment, ballet terminology, barre exercises and center work will build strength, flexibility and provide a foundation that can be applied to all dance styles.

Modern
Modern dance is a contemporary dance form that has its roots in ballet. Classes include floor and center work that incorporate the use of gravity and a sense of weightiness in the body on top of technique work. The range of motion used is endless and creative and draws on each student's personal expression. Classes may include improvisation and creative exercises.

Jazz
In jazz, students learn movements that are in pace with today but rooted in the traditions of yesterday. Class will focus on teaching basic body isolation of the head, shoulders, ribcage, feet and arms and will layer jazz style over the traditional technique of ballet. Basic jazz steps such as kick/step ball change and jazz runs will be taught. Emphasis will be placed on rhythmic awareness, individual expression and the use of the body as a rhythmic percussive instrument.

Hip Hop
Students will gain an appreciation of the improvisational nature of this dance form while learning basic movements. This class will break down steps and technique as well as emphasizing bringing style and personality to each movement. This is a high-energy class that uses the latest sounds in pop music with freestyle movement to give students the opportunity to develop their own sense of style. Hip Hop is never done small and students will be encouraged to step outside the box and dance big!