Expert: Connie - 12/7/2006

Question
Hey! I'm Becky and i'm 14 years old. I started ballet early last year on grade 2. (Haha how pathetic do i sound!) I did that and have now just finished grade 3 and have recently started grade 4. My teacher says that we will start doing a bit of pointe work at the end of each class after christmas. I was wondering if it is too soon for me as i have only been doing ballet for a year. I do one grade class a week and i have just joined an intermediat foundation class once a week too. Oh also, if i do start pointe after christmas, are Gaynor Mindens suitable shoes for begginers?
Thankyou very much!
Becky
=D

Answer
First of all, don't worry about starting late.  My dad started at the age of 20, and he was a professional dancer.  I would talk to your teacher and see if she thinks your feet are strong enough to go on point.  You will probably start off doing only releves and other things of the sort to strengthen your feet.  As long as you don't progress too quickly, and slowly work up your feet so you don't get injured you will be fine.  About Gaynor Mindens, they do not break in, as they are plastic, so it may be easier to start with a soft shoe, like Chacottes.  However, if you find a Gaynor Minden that fits perfectly, the use it!  Dance in whatever's easiest to dance in.