Pointe work is the part of classical ballet technique in which a dancer supports all body weight on the tips of fully extended feet within pointe shoes. Students are introduced to pointe work after the legs and feet are strengthened by barre and center exercises. Demi pointe is strong with relevés in first, second, fourth and fifth. During a turned out relevé, there should be proper weight distribution with all five toes flat on the floor. The big toe and second toe must take on weight distribution while on pointe. Theraband exercises are incorporated to prepare and stabilize the ankle. Pointe work starts at the barre and once students are ready, slowly progresses to the center.
At Pennsylvania Ballet Academy, age and level does not determine when pointe begins for dancers. Pointe work begins when each student is physically ready to go on pointe.