I started doing ballet for fun, not because I thought it would become my main workout. But honestly, it’s turned into one of my favorite ways to move. It’s low-impact, which I love, but it still builds strength, balance, and control. It also makes you way more aware of how your body moves. There’s something about it that feels both calming and challenging at the same time, and it’s been an important part of my life and routine for years now.
My Strength Training Routine
Along with ballet, I make time for strength training. It helps improve my performance, prevents injuries, and just makes me feel stronger overall. I focus on lighter weights, good form, and slow movements. Things like core workouts, leg strengthening exercises, and upper body movements make a big difference, especially when paired with ballet.
FOCUSING ON ARMS & CORE
Because ballet already uses the lower body a lot, I try to be intentional about balancing things out. I mainly focus on:
- Upper body strength and definition
- Core strength and stability
- Controlled movements over heavy weights
- Consistency instead of overtraining
This combo helps me build total-body strength without feeling worn down.
My Realistic Approach to Nutrition
Nutrition has honestly been the hardest part for me. I used to think I had to follow super strict rules, but that just wasn’t sustainable. Instead, I’ve been focusing on fueling my body in a more realistic way by eating balanced meals, getting enough protein, and not stressing over being perfect. Some days are better than others, but consistency matters more than being extreme.
SMALL CHANGES, BIG IMPACT
What’s helped the most is keeping things simple:
- Prioritizing protein at meals
- Adding in fruits and veggies when I can
- Staying consistent instead of all-or-nothing
- Drinking more water
These little habits support my muscles and my recovery, and they make everything feel way more manageable.
Charlee Reid is currently Miss Shelby County’s Teen in the Miss America Organization. She’s been awarded over $45,000 in scholarships and has placed in top 15 twice, as well as 1st runner up to the state competition- Miss Alabama’s Teen. She’s attending the University of Alabama in the fall and majoring in communications with her eyes on broadcasting.
