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Ballet/Too early for pointe?

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Expert: - 8/1/2008


Question
Dianne, When is the "best" age to begin pointe work? I think that if you start at too young of an age it can damage the feet, which still have a lot of cartilage vs bone?? Am I correct, and can you give me more detailed information. Thank you! Beth

Answer
Hi Beth. You are right.

The softer parts of the foot bones, the growth plates, do not fully harden until approximately the 16th year. Pointe can be started earlier, usually around 12 years old, if a student's classical ballet technique is strong and accurate. A general rule is a dancer would be doing three classes per week for a year, before training in pointe shoes.

While sometimes a younger student is gifted, flexible and strong, there is no reason to rush into pointe work. Growth is important!

All the best, Dianne.

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Dianne M. Buxton

Expertise

I can answer questions about ballet positions, ballet movements and ballet technique, pointe shoes and pre pointe exercise, mens training, ballet diet, general health issues related to dance, artistry, performance, modern dance, rehabilitation from injuries, and teaching ballet. I have taught ballet, choreographed, produced and directed dance companies. For any answers related to health questions I will offer my experience, and give references to information, but I also automatically include "see a professional".

Experience

dancer, ballet and modern, choreographer, dance teacher, artistic director, ballet mistress, producer

Organizations
I.S.T.D. Actra, Actors Equity

Publications
http://ezinearticles.com http://ballettoeshoes.blogspot.com http://streetarticles.com http://balletconnections.com

Education/Credentials
Graduate of the National Ballet School of Canada where I studied Cecchetti, Bournonville, Vaganova and Graham technique. Taught at the National Ballet School of Canada, York University, George Brown College and Harvard University.

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