Élévation requires a great deal of strength, control, and balance, and it is often considered to be the mark of a good ballet dancer.
There are two main types of elevation:
- Demi-pointe: In demi-pointe, the dancers rise up onto the balls of their feet, with their heels still touching the ground.
- Pointe: In pointe, the dancers rise up onto the tips of their toes, with their heels completely off the ground. Pointe work creates the impression of the ballerina being weightless