At Begin Ballet, we're committed to delivering top-notch ballet education, and we're here to guide you through the process of determining if going en pointe as an adult is right for you.
Alright let's start with the biggest question we are all asking, Can Adults Go En Pointe?
Yes, adults can go en pointe. While it is commonly believed that pointe work is only for young dancers, many adults are interested in exploring this aspect of ballet. It is important to note that pointe work is physically demanding and requires a strong foundation in ballet technique. It is not recommended for beginners to attempt pointe work without proper training and guidance.
Hi! I'm Gabby, a dancer with over 17 years of experience. Reflecting on my journey, I vividly remember the excitement and challenges of transitioning to pointe work. Despite initial difficulties, I've learned valuable lessons along the way.
This is what I have gathered as the main factors I consider when my students approach me and tell me they want to go on pointe:
#1 Age
One of the key components of my analysis in putting a dancer on pointe is, what age are they? On average, the bones of the feet harden around ages 13-15. That being said, I do not consider dancers younger than the age of 12, for pointe.
#2 Number of Years in Ballet Training
My second question always is “How long have you been in ballet?” That is: how long have you been taking at least 3 ballet classes a week.
This is going to tell me A LOT about where the dancer is technique-wise. Do they have the basic positions of the feet and arms? Do they have trunk stabilization? Are they able to support themselves on one leg?
In my experience, for young dancers, you really need to have at least 3 years of ballet training before considering pointe. However, for adults I consider those who have been in ballet classes consistently for at least one year. By consistently I mean at least 1-2 times per week in 1.5 hour long technique classes.
We all learn and grow at different paces, and that's ok! Some of us will be ready after one year of technique training, and others may not be ready. It doesn't mean someone worked harder or someone else didn't. We vary vastly in pace and we need to consider that to each individual dancer.
#3 Training In Pre-Pointe Classes
Third consideration, does your studio offer any pre-pointe classes and if so, how long have you been enrolled in those classes?
In my experience, dance studios that have pre-pointe classes often have more dancers that are ready for pointe than those who don't.
At Begin Ballet we offer Pre Pointe class to those interested in strengthening their ankles for pointe work, we recommend you be enrolled in this class for at least 3 months before considering pointe.
#4 Anatomy
As stated above, please go to a professional regarding physical requirements of being on pointe.
I cannot claim that I am anywhere near qualified to assess the anatomy of the foot of a dancer, and how that anatomy could potentially affect their going on pointe.
It’s crazy enough that we put 100% of our weight on our toes... inside a paper box (yikes!).
This is why if you can make it happen, I 100% recommend seeing a foot specialist (preferably one familiar with pointe!) on the anatomy of your feet.
Begin Ballet offers access to this sort of doctor. Please reach out to us at beginballet@gmail.com for this connection.
#5 Desire to Maintain Consistent Practice
How serious are you about ballet? I know that your knee jerk reaction is going to be “I love ballet!” But really, when you sit down and you ask yourself what your absolute favorite genre of dance is, is it really ballet?
The reason I am saying this isn’t because I don't think you shouldn't go on pointe, or that I try to discourage as many people as possible from going on pointe, but
with the potential for injury...
the amount of money spent...
the amount of time you need to put into getting "good" on pointe...
it simply isn't worth it if your not 100% serious about it. Please, take a moment to sit down and be honest with yourself about the process. Know what you are committing to and be ready to answer to yourself about the dedication that is required here.
#6 Finances
The average pointe shoe falls anywhere between $60-$150 dollars. I remember it so clearly when I had my first class of students going on pointe, the parents telling me - “We JUST bought them shoes this year?!”
How often you run through shoes is going to depend on a variety of factors. Who is the shoe maker? What is the shank softness? Are you sinking in the shoe? Pulling up? Do you use jet glue?
I would say it is a BIG consideration to take into account.
#7 Risk for Injury
I know that if you have gotten this far in the article you may be thinking "wow she really takes this serious". It's because I do.
I was on pointe from ages 12-20. I currently am being treated for Mortons Neuroma. I have bunions. I wake up and feel pain in my arches from plantar fasciitis.
Why am I saying all this? I want you to consider the potential for injury if you do not take this process serious!
In conclusion...
I know it is super tempting to look at pointe and go “Gosh if only…” and I say this because that WAS me… ‘ooo-ing and ahhh-ing’ at the dancers already on pointe.
Begin Ballet is taking those interested in going on pointe to the next level by bringing in professionals, evaluating your readiness, and preparing you against injury. The one factor out of our control as a studio is your dedication to this.
Please, please! Take these tips into consideration and really be sure to ask yourself if you are ready and able to commit to this endeavor!
We are excited for you all and here to answer questions. Please reach out to us at beginballet@gmail.com
Comentários