Can adults go on pointe?

Question: Can adults go on pointe!?

Hi Im doing an essay on different dance styles and how they affect those who participate in them , and was wondering can someone who came to ballet much later in life ( 18 onwards) eventually go on pointe!?Or is there a problem with the growth plates in the feet being closed!?Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

Absolutely!.

I've been dancing for 18 years, I dance (at least) 3 nights a week, and in one of my classes, there is a SEVENTY year old woman en pointe! Now that doesn't mean all 70 year old dancers will be able to - it depends on the dancers body!. How strong they are, how good their technique is!.

I have been taught all my life that ballet is something you can do pretty much all your life, so long as you practice proper technique and have a strong core!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Yes, adults who start taking ballet can eventually go on pointe!. But the same rules and standards apply to them as they do to young dancers!. The teacher must asses whether or not they are ready for pointe work i!.e!. strength, technique!.!.!.etc!. also, it's never a good idea to put anyone on pointe unless they take at least 3 ballet classes per week!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Some adults can go on pointe but it all depends on how strong their ankle is!. For example like the NYC Ballet Company all their company members are on pointe and 90% of the company is 18 and above!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

I've seen women in their 40's go on pointe after a few months of classes and extra exercises (releves) - it can be done - but slowly and carefully to avoid injury!.Www@QuestionHome@Com