Pre-Pointe Assessments
Encore Performance Health offers pre-pointe assessments for anyone wanting to start pointe work. Whether you are in adolescence, or a mature student, undergoing an assessment with someone who understand the demands of ballet will ensure you have the correct technique and toolset to enable you to progress onto pointe safely and prevent injury.
Assessments can be done at your studio if you are Brisbane or South East Queensland based. Otherwise please enquire about online assessments.
The Assessment
The assessment considers age, training history, pointe range, foot/ankle control, intrinsic foot & calf strength, pelvic/core control, and ballet technique. The assessment will look at all areas of the body including:
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Postural assessment
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Functional assessment specific to ballet
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Foot and ankle strength/mobility
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Core strength and control of the trunk with movement
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Turn out range and strength
We are also able to provide advice on purchasing the right style of pointe shoes for you and offer specific technique tips for ballet.
Follow Up Appointments
Following an initial assessment most dancers will need to follow a tailored exercise program addressing areas that may need improvement before safely moving onto pointe. We will review your progress again in approximately 3-4 weeks. At this stage we can amend your exercises to further improve strength or posture so we are progressing you towards the goal of safely moving onto pointe. We will use this process alongside recommendations from your dance teacher to determine when you are ready for pointe.
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When Should I Have My Assessment?
Many dancers will start this journey 3-6 months before starting en pointe. Most importantly, we want to ensure that your body is ready, and you are safe, before commencing your pointe journey. And remember your exercises are not designed to just get you onto pointe, they are designed to maintain your pointe training.
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What to Wear/Bring?
Please wear dancing attire including leotard and transitional tights so that your feet are visible, as well as your pointe shoes (if you have already purchased them).