Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 8/19/2007

Question
I'm 17 and I've been dancing fairly seriously (~10-12hrs/week) for the past year.  I'd like to go on pointe someday, although not for professional reasons, but I don't know if I'm "too big".  I'm 5'2" and 135, and dance has already helped me lose 20 pounds over the past year.  I know I have some technique work to do before I'll be pointe-ready, but I have strong legs and ankles and very high arches.

Answer
Hi Madeleine. Your teacher will know when you are strong enough to do pointe work. It sounds like you are going to reach that goal.

If you can keep losing a couple of pounds a month, it won't be long until you are at a good weight - about 115. I hope you are eating enough protein and a little good quality fats every day.

It's not that you are too big for pointe, but it is easier if you are at a normal weight - after all, it all goes onto your toes.

All the best, Dianne

A brief follow up - I've recommended to almost everyone to read my articles and blog entries at http://www.theballetstore.com You have to create a user name to log in to see all the blog entries - your privacy is safe! I really apologize that I didn't tell you this - I'm not a technical person!