Pointe shoes are not for beginners; dancers must undergo years of training in soft slippers before advancing to pointe work. The goal towards executing healthy and safe pointe work requires an incredible investment of time and energy. Dancers must have the consent of their ballet teacher before beginning pointe work. The average training for classical ballet before beginning pointe work is two to four years of consistent classes, at least three classes each week.
"Pre-pointe" or "demi pointe" shoes can help you get accustomed to the feel of the pointe shoe before starting pointe work. A pre-pointe shoe mimics the structure of the pointe shoe but lacks the supporting shank in the sole for rising up onto full point positions. Pointe shoes pose a challenge to the stretching of the foot, the dancer's balance and in taking off and landing from jumps. Demi pointe shoes can help prepare you for your first pair of pointe shoes and make the transition to full pointes easier and smoother.
As you begin pointe, you will be getting used to the shoes and the feel of the releve -- rolling through the foot onto a full point. To accustom yourself to the alignment of the body while on pointe, start out by facing the ballet barre and supporting yourself with both hands. Though the traditional position of barre work is to the side, with one hand resting gently on the barre, facing the barre will provide better balance and support as you start your exercises while wearing pointe shoes. Complete your regular barre exercises in this position before starting pointe work with your side to the barre and in the center floor exercises.
Continually switch between soft slippers and pointe shoes. Teachers will usually introduce pointe work into regular class or after class for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. This will give your feet regular breaks from the shoes, which will be necessary as pointe shoes often cause blisters. Over time, you develop protective calluses on your feet that make pointe work less painful. As you work in soft slippers, remain aware of the concepts your teacher introduces regarding dancing on pointe. Use class time in soft slippers to focus on developing strength in your core and calves, which will help immensely as you get used to dancing more frequently in pointe shoes.