POINTE

One of the most iconic elements of ballet dancing. Pointe work requires specialised pointe shoes, in which ballerinas dance on the tips of fully extended feet. The aim of pointe dancing is to look weightless, poised and graceful, but don’t be deceived – this style of dancing is not easy and requires years of training.

If you are interested in joining pointe, or have any queries please email us.

BEGINNER POINTE AND CONDITIONING
This class is designed for:

  • Students who are in the earlier stages of their pointe dancing, and

  • Students who have goals towards becoming a pointe dancer!

We start with some conditioning to prepare our ankles and feet and then undertake class in our pointe shoes. Students who are not yet en pointe will undertake class in “ballet flats” with a particular emphasis on the correct alignment critical to pointe work. When the teacher believes you are ready, you will undertake a pointe assessment with a Dance Physiotherapist.

If you are cleared to return to pointe following an injury, you must rejoin at this level. Previously experienced pointe dancers who have not undertaken pointe work in over 12 months need to begin in this class before progressing to Experienced Pointe.

The teacher will move students up at their own discretion.

EXPERIENCED POINTE, RAD POINTE AND CONDITIONING
This class is designed for students who have been dancing en pointe for a minimum of three years and can progress to more advanced steps without difficulty.

Students will start with some conditioning for their ankles and feet and then undertake class (Adv. Foundation and Adv. 1 RAD pointe syllabus as well as free enchainments directed by the teacher) in their pointe shoes.

OUR POINTE POLICY

At 6th Position, participation in our Pointe classes is subject to a successful physio assessment outcome.

There is no age limit to dancing en pointe, however, sound ballet technique, consistency and strength is very important. Your safety is our number one priority, and without appropriate training it can be damaging to your feet, ankles and knees.

Pointe assessments are held at the end of each term, and students will be advised if the teacher thinks they are ready to undertake the pointe assessment.

  • The amount of time will vary greatly depending on your individual strength, experience and any past injuries. For some dancers with a lot of experience, it may only take a few months, however for others it may take a few years.

    Your safety is most important and moving onto pointe too quickly can be dangerous. We recommend focussing on how you can improve your own strength and technique rather than comparing yourself against anyone else.

  • 6th Position reserves the right to advise discretion regarding the physio assessment for dancers who have been dancing en pointe elsewhere.

    Please email 6thposition.studio@gmail.com with information regarding your experience, including any exams or assessments you have previously undertaken.

    You may be asked to attend an assessment if the teacher has concerns for your safety.

  • We recommend joining the Beginner Pointe Class (Tuesdays 6pm) as well as the Dance Conditioning class (Sundays 10:30am). This class teaches you various techniques for strengthening and articulating your feet and ankles, as well as working on your alignment for all dancing.

    The Dance Conditioning class is open to all dancers regardless of their dance style.

    Additionally, we recommend taking at least two ballet classes per week to maintain your strength and technique.