Dancing ballet en pointe?

Question:I have a weak dance background...Acrobatics when I was 7, Tap at 8....Lyrical at 11 then, again, tap at 12.

But what I've really fallen to love is ballet, esspecially en pointe! Problem is, I'm now 16-but I'm more then willing to start now, even being so old [compared to everyone who started pointe at like, 11].

On the bright side, I've been a cheerleader for the last three years, so I'm strong and flexible [all three splits then over-splits, etc.].

So, my question is-is there any possibility where I can advance to pointe right away or in a year or so? Even if I'm wicked dedicated and practice all of the time?

Thanks!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I have a weak dance background...Acrobatics when I was 7, Tap at 8....Lyrical at 11 then, again, tap at 12.

But what I've really fallen to love is ballet, esspecially en pointe! Problem is, I'm now 16-but I'm more then willing to start now, even being so old [compared to everyone who started pointe at like, 11].

On the bright side, I've been a cheerleader for the last three years, so I'm strong and flexible [all three splits then over-splits, etc.].

So, my question is-is there any possibility where I can advance to pointe right away or in a year or so? Even if I'm wicked dedicated and practice all of the time?

Thanks!

Most teachers won't let you advance to pointe right away. When you go to register for classes register for you ballet class and ask if you can take pre-pointe and pointe class as well but do the class in your softshoes. This way you get more ballet practice and when your teachers think you are ready for pointe you will already be in the class!

Usually it will take one semester at the shortest, but probably a year before your teacher lets you get pointe shoes.

Not because you aren't good enough, but because you need to develop ballet specific muscles to help your ankles stay strong in pointe shoes.

Go to www.dancer.com and click on training aids. the third item on the page is called the dancers dozen and it is 13 muscle building exercises and two elastic bands to help you strengthen your muscles for pointe. Ask you mom to buy it for you for christmas!

GOOD LUCK!

HI, I have been dancing since I was 2 years old and I started pointe when I was like 12 or 13 and and now I am 15. My advice to you is to start ballet and practice for about a couple of years because even though you are strong and flexible your feet need to be good so they will be able to stand on pointe. In order to strengthen your feet you need to do exercises in ballet for a long time. I am born with natural ballet feet which means I have good arches but if your feet are not strong it doesnt matter if your are or not. Your feet need to be strong in order to stand on pointe.

Good Luck!

Absolutely possible. I was a gymnast before I ever did ballet, and I did ballet for 2 months then started pointe. I was 13. Make your goals clear to your teacher and she can give you an honest evaluation of where you're at!