What does it take to be a ballet dancer?
A lot of hard work and passion.
To excel in ballet, you need dedication, industriousness, and the ability to infuse your personality into your movements. A true love for ballet is essential for doing your best. Depending on when you start, it typically takes about 7-8 years to reach the point of dancing en pointe; where a ballet dancer supports all of their body weight on the tips of fully extended feet when wearing pointe shoes. Once you’re there, mastering the pointe technique usually takes an additional 2-3 years of consistent training. Ideally, you should attend about 3-4 pointe classes a week, complemented by pre-pointe classes in regular ballet slippers.
Getting your pointe shoes fitted correctly is one of the most critical steps in your ballet journey. You can’t just order any shoes online; proper fitting is essential. First, determine your shoe size, as pointe shoes tend to run smaller than your street shoe size. Next, consider the width of your foot. The shoes should lift you up rather than let you sink in. Ideally, the sides should fit snugly to ensure that your weight isn’t primarily on your big toe. Most of your weight should be distributed across your first two toes, with the sides providing support for the rest. Achieving even weight distribution across all your toes is key to stability and comfort.
Pointe shoes are a specific type of ballet shoe designed for standing on your toes. To dance en pointe, you need to have beautiful lines and the right technique. Inside the pointe shoe, you’ll wear toe pads for extra cushioning, making it easier on your feet. The dress code for ballet class typically includes a slicked-back bun, pink tights, a leotard, and, of course, your ballet or pointe shoes.
Pointe shoes come with several important components. The shank should align with the arch of your foot, allowing your heel to sit comfortably on top of the shoe. It’s crucial to sew the ribbons on after measuring your foot to ensure a secure fit. An elastic band is also important to keep the shoe from slipping off your heel. The box of the shoe supports your toes and feet, and it is often tapered to create a more pointed appearance. The vamp helps protect the top of your foot and the metatarsals; some dancers may request a lower vamp for added flexibility.
Success in ballet requires unwavering commitment and hard work. If you get lazy, it will be challenging to progress. Your dedication must remain at 100% at all times. Additionally, always ensure your shoes come from a reliable source and that they are fitted correctly.
With passion and perseverance, you can thrive on your ballet journey!