Pointe Question?

Question:Does anyone know any video's on youtube or have any tips on how i can prepare my self and my ankles for pointe? I am hoping start ASAP, but, i do not want to rush and hurt something. Please also note that i do not have pointe shoes yet so my excercises will be done with regular ballet slippers.
Oh and please don't ask how long i have done dance or ballet for, i just want some straight answers. Sorry if i sound rude, i am not trying to be. So please, any stretches, exercises, or tips would be greatly appreciated!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Does anyone know any video's on youtube or have any tips on how i can prepare my self and my ankles for pointe? I am hoping start ASAP, but, i do not want to rush and hurt something. Please also note that i do not have pointe shoes yet so my excercises will be done with regular ballet slippers.
Oh and please don't ask how long i have done dance or ballet for, i just want some straight answers. Sorry if i sound rude, i am not trying to be. So please, any stretches, exercises, or tips would be greatly appreciated!

Stand on stairs with your heels hanging over the edge. Make sure to have something like a railing to help stabilize yourself. Lower your heels and much as possible then rise onto your half-toes. Repeat 25 times (double this number when this is too easy). Repeat on each foot individually. This will help to strengthen your ankles.

You can also use therabands to help exercise your feet through your arch. I'm sure a search for theraband exercises will give you more results than I can fit here :)

Otherwise, continuing regular barre exercises with an emphasis on using proper technique is key. Also, ask your instructor in which areas you need the most work. Add in some pilates if you want extra help building your core.

well, if your almost ready for pointe...shouldn't you be in a pre-pointe class?

But, I have the New York City Ballet workout DVD. Exercises and strengthening specifically for dancers. I do it almost every night. Check it out, and see if it's what your looking for.