Pointe

Pointe, or en pointe, is a ballet technique in which a dancer supports all body weight on the tips of fully extended feet, traditionally using specialized pointe shoes. En pointe is central to many classical ballet roles and requires substantial strength, technique, and conditioning.

The technique arose in the Romantic era of the early 19th century, with Marie Taglioni’s performances popularizing dancing on the tips of the toes. Over the following decades, pointe work became a defining element of classical ballet, aided by improvements in footwear and training methods that allowed longer sustains on pointe.

Pointe shoes consist of a stiff toe box (the box) and a reinforced sole (the shank), encased in satin. The box supports the toes; the shank provides arch and midfoot support. The shoes are secured with ribbons around the ankle. Construction varies by maker and dancer preference, balancing stiffness with enough flexibility for control.

Training begins only after sufficient strength and alignment have developed and is overseen by a teacher or medical professional. Dancers typically spend years on barre work, progressing to center work, then to time on pointe. Proper technique emphasizes turnout, integration of the turn-out from the hip, ankle control, core stability, and alignment of the ankles over the feet. Time on pointe is gradually increased to reduce injury risk; common issues include blisters, bunions, and stress injuries.

Today, pointe remains a staple of many classical repertoires; in modern or contemporary works, it may be used selectively or avoided. While most pointe work is associated with female dancers, some male dancers train on pointe for specific roles or experimental pieces.