Many elements of ballet class etiquette are standard around the world. Here are the basics of what you need to know to make and maintain a good impression wherever you go.

1. Arrive on time (try to be 5 minutes early to clear your mind) and be properly dressed for class. 

2. Completely refrain from using your phone in the studio—including before and after class. Put out of sight and silence any devices that give notifications (including wearable ones such as smart watches) before entering the room. In this way, build the habit of focusing your attention on your body and your surroundings as soon as you enter the classroom. 

3. Remove street shoes in the hall before entering the studio. 

4. Refrain from talking or whispering during class, especially while the instructor is speaking or demonstrating. 

5. Raise your hand to ask questions about class combinations or general principles, but when possible save questions seeking individual advice or coaching until after class. 

6. Pay close attention to coaching/corrections given to classmates, and practice along with them. 

7. For safety, do not continue to dance if you begin to experience pain or extreme discomfort or suddenly feel light-headed—please inform the instructor immediately. 

8. Please alert the instructor of any known injuries or other bodily concerns prior to the start of class. 

9. No food or drink (other than water in non-glass sealed container). 

10. Please do not sit down or lean on the barre/wall, unless instructed by your teacher or for another excused reason. 

11. Throw out your gum prior to the start of each class. 

12. Bring a positive attitude and remain open to new experiences. 

13. Regularly find a new place on the floor and at the barre to keep a fresh perspective avoid forming habits. 

14. Try to stay in the room for the full duration of all classes. 

15. If on a rare occasion you need to leave the studio to use the restroom, return to the studio as soon as possible then wait along the edge of the room until the current exercise ends before rejoining class activities. This will ensure safety and minimize distractions. Please do not cut through the center of the room or in front of the teacher to get back to your spot. 

16. If you are running more than 10 minutes late to class, please make up the class on a different day.