Flat footed ballerina?

Question

hello. I've danced ballet for a few years now and just wondering if having a flat foot would prevent me from doing well in ballet. i know i've got a really good turn out from my flat feet lol but when i point i dont have a big arch compared to my class mates. i've been told i have nice legs but when i start pointe, would it be difficult for me?

Answer 1

So long as you have some arch, I would think you'd be OK.  If you have truly flat feet, you should probably speak to a physiotherapist (or maybe one of the ballet teachers) and get some exercises for them.  But if you just mean you don't have very big arches, which is more likely for someone studying ballet, then it's just the way your feet are made.

If you're concerned about pointe work, it would be best to speak to one of the ballet teachers who can examine your feet and let you know if you're likely to experience any problems.

Answer 2

I have ridiculously flat feet, with really great turn out (tooting ym own horn...) and honestly, my arches have never held me back. I'm definately capable of getting over the box fine, and they still look like in flat shoes. Huge arches can look very pretty, but they come with their own problems, a lot fo those dancers tend to "overfill" the shoe and have to learn how to reign it in, same as we have to learn to push extra hard.

I've danced for 22 years and it really has never been an issue, and honestly, I still break shanks faster than a lot fo people I 've danced with who have "better" feet.