Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 5/22/2011

Question
Hi, I'm 15 and used to take an open ballet class for a year or two and then had to quit. I've been wanting to go back to ballet forever and get onto pointe. I have pretty strong legs since I run long distance but I'm really not that flexible. How can I improve my flexibility and strength BEFORE joining a ballet class? And do you know how long it would take if I went back to ballet to get en pointe...?

Answer
Hi Jane. I can recommend two professional training guides to help you get in shape for ballet, both DVD's. One you can look at here:

http://balletpointeshoes.info - it is the link to The Perfect Pointe Book which is a great detailed guide to developing your feet properly, as well as exercises to increase your turnout and perfect your basic ballet positions. You can download the whole thing (videos, text, photos) right onto your computer. It is beautifully organized with progress charts and self assessments, so you know exactly what and how you are doing.

For flexibility, I recommend The Ultimate Stretching Guide, which you can get here:  http://squidoo.com/ultimatestretchingguide/  

I recommend this particular stretching DVD because the creator, Deborah Vogel explains how to release muscle tension before stretching, and also, something many dancers do not do is stretch their necks and upper back enough. Relaxing and stretching the neck, shoulders and upper back actually helps you get more flexible so maybe you'll eventually do the splits. Si even though it is not a balletic looking stretch guide, it is very thorough and effective.

As to how long it would take until you go onto point - I couldn't say, but it would depend on your technical accuracy and your strength. I think it will make a huge difference to have proper daily exercises such as the ones recommended above.

All the best, Dianne