Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 6/2/2008

Question
Hi. I'm 12 years old and have been taking ballet since age 3. I've been on pointe for almost 2 years. My teachers, parents and friends say I perform beautifully on stage and have wonderful stage presence, smile, movement quality, gracefulness, and musicality. My ballet teacher says I could be a professional dancer, but my ankles are holding me back and are not flexible enough. Can I do anything with the ankles I was born with? Can I make them more flexible so I can be a professional ballerina? Or should I go into another form of dance? Thank you for your response. I'm going to the Rock School in Philadelphia for summer ballet intensive.

Answer
Hi Nicole.

http://theballetstore.com/content/view/151/1/

is the link to an article at http://www.theballetstore.com It is from the blog area, about pointe shoes,  and you may need to get a user name to get into that area.

This article describes a stretch for your ankle, and also a daily routine for releasing tension in the front of your shins, which will allow for movement at the ankle joint.

Providing that you can get up onto the platform of your pointe shoes, there is no reason not to keep doing classical ballet. It is a shame that dancers are subjected to this fashion judgment in the curve of their arch. However, it does not necessarily affect functionality. Don't think about quitting!

There are other articles there that also discuss stretching the front of the ankle. I chose this one because it tells you how to release the shin muscles as well. But scan through my other articles about pointe work and perhaps you'll find some more ideas .

All the best for the summer, Nicole. Don't be discouraged!