Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 7/22/2011

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

I have been trying to get my toes to touch the ground whilst sitting down with my legs extended infront of me, has this got to do with stretching my feet? and how would i do the stretches? and how can i do this my friend can do it and i really want to learn to do it :(

Thanks very much ;)

ANSWER: Hi Paige. I would advise you not to do this. Your arches look fine for ballet. Very few people can touch their toes to the floor, but it serves no purpose.

Feet that are that flexible have their own set of problems in ballet. Be glad that you have your feet. Just work on getting them strong with pre pointe exercises. Again, you can take a look at The Perfect Pointe Book at
http://balletpointeshoes.info

All the best, Dianne

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi, (still many questions to storm in my head)

Judging by the photo I provided of my foot arches earlier  what would you say about my arches? I always thought I had low arches I always use to put them under my wardrobe doors and under a very heavy sofa.

Thanks very much<3

Answer
http://balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/2008/09/how-to-create-more-flexibi  
is an article I wrote about a safe ankle joint stretch.

Please stop putting your feet under heavy objects. While you will get a stretch from this, it is not really safe. The article above describes a safe and easy stretch for your ankle joints. You must be patient, do it when you are warmed up, and you will get results.

You have a nice curve on your arch, and it looks like you have the flexibility to get right up onto demi pointe. That's all you need.

Yet, if you feel you want more flexibility, please go the safe route and do this gentle exercise.

There is no point risking a tendon or ligament rip, which will keep you out of ballet classes for a while, or stop you altogether.

I hope I have convinced you! Regards, Dianne