Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 5/11/2010

Question
I started teen beginner ballet in September, I had just turned 13, then I did it until december, and stopped ( my schedule got really busy with some other stuff, which I don't do anymore now), I signed up with a different studio and the teacher there said I would be put in pre-elementary, which is the same as intermediate foundation. She said that I would be probably starting pointe in December. Do you think it is too early to start pointe?
BTW: I'm a cross country runner so have really strong calves and ankles.
2 days ago
Additional Details
I forgot to add that I will be starting in september, 3 time a week total of 3:45 minutes. I will be 14 by then.

Answer
Hi Michelle. I cannot really answer you for certain, but I can tell you how to test yourself so that you know exactly when you are ready for pointe work. There is a book called The Perfect Pointe Book which you can look at here:

http://www.linkbrander.com/go/70655

That takes you to the author's page and you can find out more about it. The reason I recommend is that it gives you specific routines to practice, and ways to test your own strength so you are sure about what you can do, and what you need to improve upon, before you get into pointe shoes. It will give you a lot of information that ballet students rarely get in classes.

All the best with your dancing!