Grades 1-3

Students participate in a variety of stretching and strengthening exercises to promote stamina, flexibility and core strength. Instructors use techniques from Yoga, Pilates, Calisthenics and Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) to help increase body awareness and fine muscle coordination as well as mind-body connection.

Grades 3 and up: Pre-pointe (by teacher recommendation)

Pre-pointe is a program that incorporates The Perfect Pointe System created by internationally renowned Dance Physiotherapist Lisa Howell from Australia. Students will focus on strength, control and flexibility in the feet and all of the key areas of the body that are needed to safely proceed to pointe work. Attention will also be drawn to how they use their turnout, foot articulation and correct stance (core strength) in their technique classes- which relates directly to eligibility for pointe work. Work outside of class will be needed to gain the necessary strength and flexibility for pointe. A focused and mature approach is as essential as physical attributes.

Before and after the completion of the phases in Lisa Howell’s program, students will be individually assessed. Some may require more time than others, as bodies and minds develop at different rates. The students must be able to consistently use correct technique in their classwork before progressing to pointe. The minimum age for pointe work is eleven years old due to ossification in the bones of the feet, but there are many other factors that contribute. Instructors at Rachel’s Ballet take the safety of the students as the first consideration when assessing pointe readiness. Students use a companion book https://www.dancesupplies.com/The-Perfect-Pointe-Book.html with the program.