Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 8/23/2008

Question
Hi, i'm currently seventeen
and am starting up taking ballet classes again
becuase a was sick and ahd to stop when i was younger and enevr got back into it.
I was wondering if it would be alright for em to start pointe now.
I am taking an intermidiate ballet class
and would take pointe right after that.
Would this be okay?

Answer
Hi Lucy. You may need a year or two before you go on to do ballet classes in pointe shoes.

Your core muscles and ballet positions all need to be very strong before you start pointe.

Also, and just as important, the soles of your feet must be developed to support you in pointe shoes.

There is a very good study-at-home ballet manual I recommend to ballet dancers who want to get ahead as far as pointe work goes. The Perfect Pointe Book has a link to it at http://www.balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com The link is down a little on the left side. You can read about it and if you get it, you have an instant download of text, many photos and videos that explain everything you need to know about strengthening for pointe work. Of course the technique you acquire will improve everything you do in class also, and strengthen you for good jumps.

It is a very extensive informational book, and the author, a dance medicine specialist, updates it every year. You get the updates for free, just keep your original order #.

Pointe is no fun if you're not strong enough, it's just a struggle. So enjoy getting stronger, no matter how long it takes. You'll know that when you put on those pointe shoes you'll be ready to go.

By the way, there are also lots of articles on the link I gave you above, about strengthening every aspect of ballet technique.

All the best, Dianne