A basic ballet class consists of several segments, usually: barre, center, adagio, allegro, and reverence. The components of a basic ballet class are usually consistent throughout most of the world. Every ballet class begins at the barre.

Ballet class begins with strengthening and stretching exercises at the barre (a wooden rail). Next, dancers go to the center of the studio, where they practice combinations of steps that progress from slow, controlled movements to small jumps and turns.