“Freedom to a dancer means discipline—that is what technique is for…liberation.”
–Martha Graham
–Martha Graham
If you are interested in starting pointe, it’s not too late! But it is important to make sure you are fully prepared to begin pointe work before you start, in order to prevent injury. These are the most important elements to have prior to starting pointe:
· Strong ankles, feet, and toes
· Proper placement/alignment, especially of the lower body
· A habit of “rolling through” your feet in tendu, relevé, and jumps
Keep these things in mind during class, and try to incorporate some strength building exercises into your daily routine. In no time, you will be ready to start pointe!
· Strong ankles, feet, and toes
· Proper placement/alignment, especially of the lower body
· A habit of “rolling through” your feet in tendu, relevé, and jumps
Keep these things in mind during class, and try to incorporate some strength building exercises into your daily routine. In no time, you will be ready to start pointe!
Strength Exercises
A lot of what we do in class builds strength for pointe, especially relevé and tendu. These exercises are easy to incorporate into your routine, even when you’re not in class (i.e., when you brush your teeth, watch some tv, or waiting in line). Even a little goes a long way, so start right away!
You can also do some great strengthening exercises with a theraband. If you need to buy one (they cost about $8), make sure you get a light or medium weight, otherwise there will be too much resistance!
You can also do some great strengthening exercises with a theraband. If you need to buy one (they cost about $8), make sure you get a light or medium weight, otherwise there will be too much resistance!
Alignment
Proper alignment is essential in dance, but it is especially true for pointe work. In class, always remember how to “stack” yourself:
Ears
Shoulders
Hips
Knees
Ankles
As far as your feet, make sure you do not sickle! Theraband exercises that strengthen the outside muscles of your legs/ankles will help with this. Check out the diagrams for a better idea of how this impacts your pointe work.
Ears
Shoulders
Hips
Knees
Ankles
As far as your feet, make sure you do not sickle! Theraband exercises that strengthen the outside muscles of your legs/ankles will help with this. Check out the diagrams for a better idea of how this impacts your pointe work.