What is a Pre-Pointe Assessment?
A pre-pointe assessment is a comprehensive physical evaluation conducted by a physiotherapistand that involves a thorough physical assessment and preparatory exercises to ensure the dancer is safely ready for pointe work. This preparation focuses on building strength, flexibility, balance, and core control to prevent injuries like stress fractures or tendonitis, which can occur from starting pointe too early. Key aspects include evaluating foot and ankle strength, intrinsic foot strength, and overall body alignment.
All pre-pointe assessments at Move are run by ballet trained physiotherapists with a strong understanding of dance and related injuries.
This is a relaxed 45min appointment, where your physio will ask questions to get to know you - your dance history, past injuries, and any relevant medical history. As well as discussing your dance goals and objectives.
Your physical assessment will involve analysing lower limb range of motion, with a particular focus on ankle and big toe range. The length and strength of muscles will be assessed including the calf, intrinsic foot muscles, core and pelvic control, as well as turnout position.
Dynamic movements such as; plié, tendu, rise, jumps in ballet positions and arabesque, will also be looked at to assess strength and technique.
Exercise programming - A comprehensive exercise program will be developed based on the areas identified in your assessment to ensure you are safe to dance en pointe. This may include lower limb strengthening, core exercises, foot alignment and calf endurance. It is recommended these exercises are completed 2-3x per week. Followed by a review assessment after 3-6 weeks.
What to expect
More information
This is not a pass or fail assessment like a ballet exam! Pre-pointe assessments are designed to ensure success in training en pointe and to reduced the risk of recurrent injuries. Our goal is to help you enjoy and succeed in your transition.
When can young dancers commence pointe work? Pre-pointe assessments are not typically recommended before 12 years of age due to skeletal immaturity and the body not being able to tolerate the extra demands of dancing en pointe.
A pre pointe assessment may be considered from 11 years of age to start to work on developing your strength before turning 12.
Did you know?
Top level ballet dancers including the Australian ballet have a strengthening regime they follow everyday.
Including single leg calf endurance rises of 35 + reps!
Booking notes
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Book your pre pointe assessment from age 11 or 3 months before your class is planning to commence pointe.
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Please wear leotards/tights or tight fitting activewear to the assessment.
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It is important to continue your exercise program once you transition en pointe, as they are designed to maintain the strength/positions required for pointe.
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Be sure to book your review appointment at the end of your assesment.
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