Pre-pointe assessment

What is a pre-pointe assessment?

A pre-pointe assessment is a thorough evaluation a physio at Artistic Sports Physio conducts to determine you are physically ready to begin pointe work. Pointe work requires a high level of strength, flexibility, and technique to prevent injury. Our Physiotherapist Renee is the company physio for the QLD ballet so knows exactly what is required to be competent en pointe.

During a pre-pointe assessment, several factors are evaluated, including:

1. Strength: Assessing your core strength, leg muscles, ankles, and feet.

2. Flexibility: Evaluating your ankle flexibility, foot flexibility, and overall range of motion.

3. Technique: Observing your technique in ballet exercises to ensure you have proper alignment, turnout, and control.

4. Posture, hypermobility and Alignment: Checking for any postural issues or alignment issues that may need to be addressed before starting pointe work.

5. Foot Structure: Examining the shape and structure of your foot to determine what type of pointe shoe you may need.

6. Readiness and Commitment: Discussing the need for commitment to proper training and understanding the responsibilities and risks associated with dancing en pointe.

Based on the assessment, your physio will provide recommendations, strengthening and flexibility exercises, or additional technique work to prepare you for pointe work. They may also advise on the appropriate time to start pointe work based on the individual dancer’s readiness and progression in their ballet training.

How do I prepare for pointe shoes?

Readiness for pointe should be a decision directed by your teacher and assessed by a dance physiotherapist at Artistic Sports Physio. It is largely based on your stage of bone growth, strength development and dance training.

Ideally you need to be older than 11, have been training for at least three years and attending class at least three times a week. Beginning too early could mean you put excessive load on a growing body, encourage poor technique and risk injury. Attending class less than three times a week can lead to slower progress.

Don’t be in a rush to begin pointe. Some dancers begin pointe work at 16years of age and continue on to have successful careers.

Do you want to find out if you have what it takes to go en pointe? Purchase the readiness for pointe eBook or book an appointment to assess your readiness for pointe shoes.