How to stretching for a better pointe?

Question

What stretches can I do on my own to stretch my point? I have tried putting them under a sofa and sitting with my feet under me and forcing my body on my feet to make my feet pointe but it's just not working as well as I think it should.

Answer 1

There are quite a few excercises you can do. First thing you should do is make sure your pointing your ENTIRE foot not just your toes- it should be supported from your leg. Also, be careful not to fracture your arches- never have someone else push or force the stretching of your feet. One you can try is with feet parallel and together, releve - go to half point with both feet then bend at the knees gently pushing over on your arch. It stretches the ball of the foot.

when you stretch ur feet make sur your feet are warmed up. you should do allot of rises and tendus. use a thera band and pointe your feet in it.

in my ballet class...i do this thing where you sit on your butt knees bent in front of you...hmm its kinda hard to explain but here:

1) sit on the floor with your legs straight in front of you...like an L

2)put your arms to your side then bring them back. just enough for you to support yourself (ex: leaning back)

3) bring your legs towards you so they are bent and your feet are flat on the ground...(don't bring them too close for them push your stomach)

4) curl your toes and slowly go on your toes

that's the first step...this is how i started after this you can roll into the "sitting on your knees" position then bring your butt up

also if you may have a tight achilies tendon so if you can loosen it it will help your arch.

also while your standing, point one of your feet and place a little pressure on the top of your toes( about 1-2 inches on top of your toes actaully). this is the method i used and i work the best for me :)

Answer 2

If you have pointe shoes, simply put them on, roll up in parallel, hold onto a barre or something, and plie over them as far as you can. Do that almost everyday and it should stretch you to a nice point... If you DON'T have pointe shoes, get a partner. Sit down on the floor across from your partner, facing them. Then you each take each other's desired foot for stretching and bend it as far as it will go (without hurting them) and hold that position.

Answer 3

you can go in grand plie in seconde and roll up on to your toes in a forced arch, get an exercise band