Why Alamo City Arts Academy Has a Set Criteria for Pointe?

At Alamo City Arts Academy, we get asked all the time, “When can my 7-year-old who has danced for a year do pointe?” or “I’m 13 and just started ballet—why can’t I go on pointe?” We know it’s exciting to dream of dancing en pointe, but the truth is, pointe work is not just about age or enthusiasm—it’s about physical readiness, strength, and proper technique. That’s why we have strict criteria to ensure our dancers are prepared before making this big step.
Why We Do Not Allow Dancers Under 12 to Begin Pointe
The bones in a dancer’s feet don’t fully develop and harden until around ages 13-15. If a dancer starts pointe too early, before their feet and muscles are strong enough, it can lead to serious and even permanent damage. That’s why we require dancers to be at least 12 years old and meet other specific criteria before they are considered ready for pointe.
We follow international ballet guidelines set by organizations like the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) National Training Curriculum, which emphasize that pointe work should not begin before a dancer is physically prepared. Even the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), one of the world’s most prestigious ballet competitions, does not allow dancers under 12 to compete en pointe, reinforcing the global standard for pointe readiness.
Pointe Readiness Criteria
To safely advance to pointe, a dancer must meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 12 years old.
   • The bones of the feet are still developing before this age, and early pointe work can cause lasting damage.
2. Have a healthy muscle structure.
   • Strong muscles are essential to support the foot and ankle en pointe.
3. Have a sufficiently arched instep.
   • A strong, flexible arch helps with proper weight distribution on pointe.
4. Have at least three years of consistent ballet training.
   • A solid ballet foundation is crucial before attempting pointe work.
5. Take at least three ballet classes per week (totaling at least five hours).
   • Regular class attendance is vital! Consistency is key to developing strength, muscle memory, and proper technique. Missing classes means missing out on building the skills needed for pointe.
6. Be able to maintain correct turnout while dancing from flat to demi-pointe.
   • Turnout should come from the hips, not the feet or knees, to prevent injury.
7. Maintain a strong, straight torso without pelvic tilt.
   • Core strength keeps the dancer balanced and prevents misalignment en pointe.
8. Execute a proper demi-plié in all transitions.
   • Knees must be aligned with the second toe while maintaining heel contact with the floor.
9. Fully point the feet without sickling.
   • Proper foot articulation is essential for strength and technique.
10. Perform piqué passé with a straight leg.
    • Strength in this movement is necessary for controlled pointe work.
11. Complete 16 relevés in the center on half-pointe without stopping.
    • This demonstrates the calf and ankle strength needed for pointe work.
12. Balance in passé on half-pointe.
    • Good balance and alignment are key for pointe readiness.
13. Be in good health and able to complete an entire ballet class.
    • If a dancer frequently has to rest due to fatigue, illness, or injury, they may not yet have the endurance for pointe work.

Why Regular Class Attendance is So Important?
One of the biggest factors in pointe readiness is consistent training. A dancer who only takes one or two ballet classes a week or frequently misses class will not develop the strength, technique, and muscle memory needed for pointe. Pointe work is demanding and requires a strong foundation built over time. By attending class regularly, dancers ensure they are strengthening their feet, ankles, and core to handle the extra stress of dancing en pointe.
Exercises to Prepare for Pointe Work
If you’re eager to get on pointe, the best thing you can do is focus on building strength, flexibility, and balance. Here are some key exercises to help prepare:
Strengthening Exercises

• Theraband Foot Exercises: Strengthen foot and toe muscles.
• Relevés: Two-legged and single-legged relevés build ankle stability.
• Calf Raises: Strengthen the calf muscles and improve stability.
• Doming (Toe Curls): Target the small muscles of the feet for increased strength.

Flexibility Exercises

• Foot Stretchers and Therabands: Increase arch flexibility.
• Toe Stretches and Ankle Circles: Improve mobility and articulation.

Balance and Core Strengthening

• Single-Leg Balances: Enhance stability for pointe work.
• Bosu Ball or Balance Board Exercises: Improve ankle strength.
• Planks and Pilates: Strengthen core muscles for better alignment.

Technique and Alignment Training

• Elevé and Relevé Practice: Reinforce proper positioning.
• Pre-Pointe Classes: Provide structured preparation under an experienced instructor.

Our Commitment to Safe and Successful Pointe Training
​We know that many young dancers are eager to go on pointe, but we always prioritize safety and long-term success over rushing the process. Our goal is to guide dancers through this exciting milestone when their bodies are fully prepared, reducing the risk of injury and setting them up for a strong future in ballet.
If you have questions about our pointe readiness criteria or how to prepare, talk to your instructor—but please respect their decision and remember that they are looking out for your safety.