Pre-Pointe Ballet Assessments
Initial Pre-Pointe Assessment
Pre-pointe assessments aim to prepare ballet dancers for pointe work, ensuring they have the strength, control, mobility, and technique to progress safely while minimising injury risk. The assessment will evaluate foot and ankle strength, core and pelvic stability, lower limb control, balance, proprioception, and overall technique. Each dancer will receive an extensive report and targeted exercises to address areas needing improvement, setting them up for a strong, safe, and successful transition to pointe.
Duration: 60-minutes
Review Pre-Pointe Assessment
This follow-up session builds upon the initial pre-pointe assessment, reviewing the dancer’s prescribed exercises and re-evaluating key assessment criteria. The goal is to assess progress, determine readiness for pointe work, and identify any areas requiring further development before safely transitioning to pointe shoes.
Duration: 40-minutes
FAQs
What does the assessment involve?
1
The assessment includes a combination of:
Mobility screening of the hips and ankles
Strength testing (core, hips, feet, ankles)
Relevé endurance and alignment testing
Balance and stability testing
Jumping and landing mechanics
Who can complete the assessment?
2
This assessment is for dancers who are:
Aged 12 years and over (or about to turn 12)
Preparing to go on pointe for the first time, or
Already on pointe but experiencing pain, fatigue, or recurring injuries
Attend a minimum of 2 ballet classes per week
Do I need to bring anything?
3
Yes, please bring:
Ballet uniform (leotard, tights, etc.)
Ballet shoes (and pointe shoes if already fitted)
Any previous injury or medical history information if relevant
Hair tied back for clear movement assessment
Water bottle to rehydrate during assessment
What happens if I am not ready for pointe?
4
Most dancers will not be granted pointe clearance at their initial assessment. Dancers will be given targeted exercises to address any areas requiring improvement before returning for reassessment. The goal is to ensure a safe and successful transition to pointe work, rather than rushing the process.
If you are not yet ready, you will receive:
A clear explanation of why and a copy of your assessment report
A tailored exercise program to address specific weaknesses
A suggested timeframe for reassessment (usually within 6-8 weeks)
Yes. With consent, a summary report will be provided to parents, teachers, or studio directors.