In this second session of our Pre-Pointe series, guided by Stephanie Petersen, dancers continue developing the key technical foundations that will support safe and successful pointe work in the future. Several exercises in this class are progressions from Class 1, designed to build endurance, control, and proprioception.

We will begin by revisiting postural control and foot articulation, before moving onto  strengthening exercises for the feet, ankles, and core, as well as weight placement and turnout stability.

A key highlight of this session is Soleus Conditioning – Level 2, a progression from the previous class, focusing on one of the most critical yet overlooked muscles in pointe preparation. The soleus supports ankle stability and power during relevés, jumps, and sustained balances.

We also explore Foot Therapy, a simple yet powerful proprioceptive tool. Encourage students to do a plié and relevé before and after the exercise so they can experience the difference in mobility and control.

Tips

Use Foot Therapy as a pre-class activation or post-training recovery tool. It helps restore articulation and prevent fatigue.

Pay close attention to pelvic alignment as students progress into deeper conditioning—compensation often begins there.

Remind students that pointe preparation includes repetition, awareness, and patience.