Expert: Connie - 12/29/2006

Question
hi,i am 11yrs old and this is my 3rd year in dance im am about to go to the next level wich is the highest in my dance studio.i am having problems landing my turns!what should i do?i am about to go on pointe and i am a little nervous what do i need to prepare myself???

Answer
landing which turns?  Are they from fourth, fifth or second?  Are they normal pirouettes or grand pirouettes?

If they are just normal pirouettes from fourth I would concentrate on staying up on demi-pointe at the end of the turn.  Practice singles and end up on demi-pointe and try to balance there before coming down.  That way you will be on balance and it should be much easier to land.

You probably don't have to do anything to prepare for pointe if your teacher thinks you're ready.  Just make sure your feet are strong.  If you want you can do ankle circles and releves to make them stronger.
Don't be nervous, pointe is  a lot of fun, and the more  practice you get the easier it becomes!