Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 1/14/2008

Question
I am concerned about the dangers of permanent damage to my feet, ankles, legs if I go on pointe too soon.  Our doctor says, NO, our team doctor (basketball) says NO...What's your opinion.  I'm a tall (and still growing) 12 year old.  My Mom is siding with the doctors....

Answer
Hi Katie! I am siding with the doctors too! You need very accurate and very strong ballet technique to proceed to pointe work. The "ball park" figure guide is at least three years of ballet and at least three classes a week for a year. While everyone progresses differently, that's a good guide.

If you are serious about progressing to pointe, take a look at the link below for a wonderful self-assessment, practice at home manual. It gives detailed anatomical info, with photos, x-ray photos, charts to record your progress, and much more than just foot exercises - exercises for balance, turnout and posture, stretches and strengthening exercises. The author, a dance medicine specialist, asks $47.77 US for it. I consider it equal to a college textbook, and it discusses your topic- prepointe. She also discusses exactly what can get damaged if you go on pointe too soon.
The link to her book is:
http://www.linkbrander.com/go/54727

Also, you can go to my site http://www.theballetstore.com and read some of my articles on strengthening for pointe, and also much more, if you like. There is lots to read with all the finer details for optimum results, in the article section and the blog section, about many different ballet exercises.

All the best! Dianne