3. Listen to your teacher
Your teacher's guidance is essential. They know you far better than I do and spend a lot more time with you! It is their job to ensure your technique is strong enough for pointe work and help you progress safely. And this goes without saying - never EVER wear your pointe shoes without your teacher's supervision! No dancing at home on pointe!
4. Break in your shoes (the old fashioned way)
We've all seen the zillions of Tik Tok and Instagram videos of dancers stepping on their shoes, smashing the box in a doorway and chopping the shank to pieces. PLEASE, JUST DON'T! I had to refit a dancer the other day who bought shoes 3 days earlier and destroyed them by doing just that. Your shoes will break in organically as you wear them. If you have trouble breaking them in or they remain too stiff or uncomfortable, come back to see us and we will help you safely manipulate your shoes while maintaining their integrity and support.
5. Invest in the necessary accessories
6. Learn to care for your shoes
Did you know it takes up to 48 hours for your shoes to dry after you wear them? Air them out after each class to prevent bacteria and icky smells and prolong their lifespan. Never store them in a plastic bag and don't stuff your pads in the shoes!
7. Warm up thoroughly
Never ever put your pointe shoes on cold. You should always take a full ballet class before attempting pointe work when you first start out. When you are more seasoned, make sure you've completed a full barre before you put those shoes on!
8. Take care of your feet
In addition to daily foot exercises, you want to make sure you keep those puppies healthy and blister free! We love a post-class ice bath, Barefoot Scientist products and Medagels to help heal blisters.
9. Be patient with your progress
Pointe work takes a LOT of time, focus and dedication. To avoid frustration make sure you take time to celebrate the small victories and don't rush the process - it's all about building confidence along with your skill!
10. Ask questions
Mastering pointe work, and ballet technique in general, is a long arduous process and your teachers and fitters are there to help. Always speak up if something doesn't feel right. We have a
15 minute fitting option that is PERFECT for troubleshooting. If your shoes aren't feeling great, come back and see us!
I hope this list takes some of the mystery and stress out of what should be a most magical experience for every young dancer. If you haven't come in for your shoes yet, make that appointment!
At the risk of beating a dead horse, I'm 10 weeks away from my due date, so if you want a fitting with me, let's get it on the books now! I'm not exactly sure when or how long I'll be out, but it's coming up fast. (GULP) I'm starting to tire easily, but I still feel great (and I'm still teaching 4 classes a week!) so I hope to make it until the bitter end! For those of you who need multiple summer shoes....get that order in before April 1! Hope to see you all soon.
