Arts >> Dance >> Ballet

How to Go on Pointe Faster

A goal of many young ballet students, dancing on pointe requires a great deal of strength to avoid injury. When evaluating a student for pointe, teachers look at a variety of factors. Some requirements center on factors a student can't really control: age and bone development. Other elements demonstrate that the student has the necessary strength, flexibility, technique and discipline to begin learning this beautiful art form. By increasing your commitment to ballet, you can improve your chances of getting to dance on pointe.

Instructions

    • 1

      Add more ballet technique classes. If you want to begin pointe, take at least two, but ideally three, full-length ballet classes every week. Students who take three or four classes a week will develop strength and technique faster than students who only take one or two classes a week.

    • 2

      Perform every exercise the best you can. Often, students cheat a little --- especially when they think their teachers aren't watching. Always work your rotation. Ask yourself whether your core muscles are engaged and whether you are really pointing your feet. Every time you cheat, you lose an opportunity to improve.

    • 3

      Perform core-strengthening exercises. Ask your teacher for exercises to help strengthen your abdominal and back muscles as well as your external rotators. If possible, take a Pilates class once a week.

    • 4

      Strengthen and stretch your ankles and feet. A simple, effective exercise involves pointing and flexing your feet against the resistance of a rubber exercise band.

    • 5

      Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eat enough calcium and protein to build healthy bones and muscles.

Ballet

Related Categories