Why do gymnasts point their toes?

Question

doesn't it hurt?

Answer 1

It's just to create that "straight line".

The toes and feet have to be pulled downward so that the line from the knee to the tip of the toes is essentially straight and their is no angle in the ankle.

Answer 2

If we don't have a good toe point, the judges can deduct a tenth of a point off of our score. I know it's really dumb. Male Gymnasts have to do it too, but it's not as looked upon as female gymnasts toe points are. It will also help us keep our body in a straight, hollow position.

Answer 3

Do you know how ugly our skills would look / do look with out pointed feet! no ones wants to see that doesn't look graceful lol.

pointing ours toes creates a line the makes us look more graceful,longer,and leaner, not 2 mention pointing them usually allows us to have straight legs too.

Answer 4

It doesn't hurt at all. It's to create a good line, and also for safety purposes. Many people have sustained ankle injuries because they didn't point their toes. Also, if it hurts, it means the person most likely has a bad arch.  

Answer 5

It doesnt hurt. It makes them straight and much neater! I always have to point my toes! :-)

Answer 6

it make your movement much more graceful and no it dosent hurt