Expert: Connie - 1/14/2011

Question
I am asking this question in concern for the students who are taking the pre pointe class at the studio where i work. The owner runs the class and is having the students in pre point go up on their toes in ballet slippers. I don't feel that this is safe for those childrens feet, ankles and so on. If you could give me some reasoning behind maybe why shes doing this that would be helpful. If i am correct in thinking that its hurting the students, how do i approach the owner of the studio with the correct information? Thank you in advance for your time and answer.
                                     Signed,
                                     Miss Sheri

Answer
I agree with you and don't believe this to be safe for the children.  Neither is it necessary, or even beneficial!  Practicing on demi-pointe, or half-pointe, is the correct way to prepare for pointe (this is when the ball of the foot and the toes remain on the floor.  It is also known as releve.).  It is necessary to have the support of the pointe shoes if one is going to attempt to rise to full pointe (with just the tips of the toes on the floor).  The shoe will support the foot and decrease risk of injury.  If one attempts to rise to pointe without a pointe shoe the bones of the feet and ankles will not be supported.  I would approach the teacher and inquire about his or her reasons for having the students go en pointe without pointe shoes.  You may also want to mention that in normal training methods students go en pointe only with pointe shoes.  If the teacher is set in their ways, it may be time to seek out a different studio where the teacher is more concerned about students' health.  Best of luck.