When Is A Dancer Ready For Pointe? Ballet Teacher & Science Insights #danceteacher #ballet #podcast

Join the Ballet Science Podcast with Caroline Simpkins, former ballerina and researcher, as we wrap up our two-part series on pointe readiness. In this episode, Caroline shares her personal perspective as a ballet teacher and researcher, explaining what teachers look for before allowing dancers to begin pointe work.

*Watch Full Video Here:* https://youtu.be/L3piWNtOZoY

We cover key factors including:
-Physical readiness: ankle, foot, and core strength
-Ankle mobility and alignment
-Technical proficiency and years of training
-Emotional maturity and focus
-The pointe shoe fitting process
-First-year goals for safe and confident pointe training
-Advice for dancers starting ballet later in life
-The important role parents play in supporting their child’s journey

Whether you’re a dancer, teacher, or parent, this episode blends science and real-world ballet experience to give you a clear understanding of what it truly means to be ready for pointe.

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Hosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we will explore the intersection of science and ballet—from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.