Feet and Pointe

[twinkletoes243]

I am about to start pointe sometime within the next few months and I was wondering if there are any stretches to improve my turnout and help to strengthen my ankles...Thanks! :lol:

[pygmalion]

Hi twinkletoes243! Welcome to the forums. :D I believe there are a couple threads on stretching already. I'll do a search, then post what I find. :D

Jenn

[Swing Kitten]

welcome to the forums twinkletoes! hmmm... good question-- perhaps someone with a background in ballet could help (i.e. not me ;))

It's nice to have you with us and I hope you find the information that you need.

[pygmalion]

So far, I found this thread on pointe.

http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=1344

[pygmalion]

Another older thread on stretches for dancers. It may not be exactly what you need, but it may help. :? :)

http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=1066

[Giselle]

Ok, well I guess that was my cue. I recommend repeated fondues and relevers one leg at a time for strengthening ankles and calves. As for turnout- a barre stretch, with emphasis on turning out. That's one leg, straightened and turned out on the barre- plier, whatever is best for you. Hope that helps. On a ballroom note- I am struggling to make a conscious effort to NOT turnout in waltz, etc. especially when I developer or even just do the basic. Sigh- ballet is both a blessing and a curse. :?

[twinkletoes243]

Thanks SO much you al really helped :)

[tasche]

Giselle I have the same problem with avoiding turnout in tango and I haven't actively take a ballet class in 5 years ( one or two here and there)

Once you ar e enpointe you will find that certain techniques and exercise will make much more sense. It becomes apparently obvious why you need the best turnout you can. You get to see all the theory and work put into practical application and it will become glaringly obvious in which areas you are weak. Of couse any good teacher will put you up at a slow enough pace that you can work on any porblem areas as you discover them

[dancersdreamland]

Welcome to the Forum Family, twinkletoes243!

The dance magazine "Dance Spirit" has excellent stretching and dance advice. See if your local library carries past issues; it may be worth while just to strum through them and see what you can find. You may also want to checkout their website:http://dancespirit.com/

"Point" is a sister publication to "Dance Spirit" which may also offer some great advise. Checkout their website: http://pointemagazine.com/

All the best!