How do You Know You're
Ready for Pointe?

Am I Ready Physically?

Ask yourself:

1. Do I Feel Confident in My Technique?

Pointe exaggerates everything. That means if something is hard on flat it is going to be really hard on pointe.

If you feel that you understand ballet technique and can perform it correctly, that is a good sign that you are ready for pointe. If you don't feel confident, you might need to wait.

2. Do I Feel Relaxed as I Dance?

Tense, gripping muscles (especially hips and shoulders) is usually a sign that your body isn't entirely comfortable with ballet technique yet.

If you know which muscles to use and are strong enough, dancing should feel relaxed and flowy, never forced.

3. Am I Aligned as I Dance?

Misalignment is the number one issue I see in girls who struggle on pointe. Not only does misalignment make pointe difficult, it can (and usually does) lead to injuries.

The general rule is you should be able to maintain a posture of Ears over Shoulders over Hips over Knees over Ankle Bones.

4. Can I Find My Balance?

If you can maintain alignment, you will be able to find your balance.

Because pointe work means balancing on a small platform, you want to feel balanced on flat before you add the extra challenge of pointe.

5. Am I Ready for a Big Physical Challenge?

Most experts in pointe work say to wait until 12 before starting pointe so that your feet are done growing and you don't cause long term damage.

If you are at least 12, do you feel that your body is ready for the work necessary to do pointe correctly?

There is a physical commitment to be in ballet class 2-5 times a week and pointe class 2-3 times a week.

The only way that you will be successful, and stay away from injury, is to commit to attend classes that will make you strong.

Also, are you ready to hurt in ways you've never hurt before? Ok, that’s a little dramatic. But any pointe dancer will tell you that there is pain involved. Blisters, bruised toe nails, sore feet and muscles.

Make sure that your body is healthy enough to withstand the strains of pointe.

Am I Ready Mentally?

Ask Yourself:

6. Am I Ready to Make the Time Commitment?

First you are committing to take time and energy away from other options (friends, sports) and commit to dancing.

This is important.

Don't be one of those girls who starts pointe work and then quits because it takes too much time. Understand the time commitment that you are making. It is a lifestyle choice.

7. Am I Excited to Learn About Pointe Work?

You also will need to commit to learn about pointe principles and how to make them work on your body. Your teachers will help you, but ultimately you are responsible for your body and your training.

Have-to-Dance.com is here to help you understand pointe work! Please use the Ask Me! form for any questions you have.

Also get comfortable with your library or checking out Amazon.com to find books on pointe and read, read, read.

Making the Commitment

And then, trust your gut.

Ultimately, this is your life. It is your decision to make. So, what do you think?

Are you ready for pointe?