New year, new series?! 🧐 Let us know if you like this 'everything u need to know' format. Comment below suggestions for any other tutorial/instructional videos you want!!! hope your holidays have been very happy & wishing you all a merry new year ♥
I have always wanted to do ballet, and I'm hoping to do so in the next few years (I'm almost 27). As a potential adult ballet dancer, I'd love to see any and all recommendations and tips about starting ballet later in life. I love learning all these things about pointe shoes!
Everything you need to know... about "aging gracefully" as a ballet student. What are the kinds of foot (or other) injuries you might be more prone to than the teenagers I dance with? What to be aware of & how to avoid issues if your family has a history of arthritis & osteoporosis? Are there warning signs where your body's telling you that you might be too old to be on pointe or to be dancing safely? I'm not there, yet, thank goodness, but with my family history, it's definitely on my mind.
hello I was wondering how long approximatively does it take for an adult ballet dancer to go on pointe? (I started not long ago, I always dreamt to dance. Now I m 20, studying medicine and loving my classes! Dance is such a good and healthy way to take all the stress out (my studies aren't so called relaxing haha 😅) I m trying to do as much sport as possible on the side (I have ehler danlos syndrome so it's not always easy but sport is certainly a good way to strengthen myself and my joints, I love it) and to go to the gym 2 to 3 times a week at last)
I have a question: I've always thought I have pretty good arches (I mean not amazing, but pretty good) but every shoe I wear, my arches never have any shape and just look really stiff until they are not supportive anymore. I wear a soft shank. Do I need different shoes or am I doing something wrong?
Been on pointe for 13 years, and honestly letting your foot break the shoe in is the best when you are a student. It lets you know where you need to get your shoes to soften in future and helps to strengthen your feet. I only break my shoes in if I have a show, otherwise I let my feet do the work. The shoes are also more comfortable that way in my opinion.
I agree!!! Plus it will make your first pair(s) last longer since you’re not doing any strenuous pointe work and probably not dancing in them for long periods of time.
I mostly break mine in with my foot but I did need to slightly break in the shank on my left foot because I was not completely getting over my box on that side. My teacher was the one who told me I needed to so I just listen to her. Other than that you should let your foot break it in to gain the muscle and training you need. My left foot is just less flexible than my right foot so I needed to even them out so I didn’t break my ankle lol
I just got fitted into my first pair of pointe shoe and I am 26. I am honestly so relieved by what you just said about adults getting their first pointe. The lady fitting me was more than surprised as well, she said I am as joyeous as a 3 year-old about it and it is so overwhelming to see such passion in adults. At first, I was like "will they think I'm crazy", but then I just went with it, because we all have only one life. All my life I have been told by my very conservative family that I cannot do ballet because I don't have the BODY for it. I was never slim, but not fat either. But since I never had slim legs, they said " oh hell no, you'll look like an elephant or miss piggy ". I never got the chance so I am giving myself the chance now. Funnily enough, the lady fitting me has been doing ballet for 20 years, she doesn't have slim legs either and she said having muscular legs like mine are actually a great help in ballet. lol @ my family
"An elephant or Miss Piggy"??!! Wth?! What an incredibly rude and nasty thing to say to anyone, let alone your own child. I'm so sorry you had to go through being told that by the people who are supposed to be your biggest supporters. My parents took the view that it was their role to help me figure out what I enjoyed doing and was good at for myself. If I wanted to try something (within reason), I could. For example, I have zero musical ability, but my parents still paid for music lessons on 2 different instruments until I'd figured that out for myself. I also did trampolining, which I was never going to be any good at (wrong body shape), but I kept doing it because I enjoyed it. I set myself the goal to keep improving, not to be "good" at it, because it gave me pleasure. The only reason I'm not still doing it now, in later life, is because of health problems. I'm glad you were finally able to try something you'd always wanted to try and are enjoying it. I hope you didn't and don't let what your family told you get you down or hold you back too much.
With so many potential issues around how a pointe shoe fits in class, especially for students new to pointe, have you considered making fit cards for the teachers and students? Imagine a card/diary you fill out that may provide words and pictures to describe something they wouldn't know how to themselves. Teachers can send students back with the card if something isn't quite right and you don't have to rely on an inexperienced student to relay that information. The students then can also begin to recognize patterns so if something changes it's more apparent. Kinda like a food sensitivity journal: I did this in class and it felt like this in my shoe.
Just a tip. I actually really like using a safety pin to decide where I want to place my ribbons and elastics. Not only does the safety pin hold them in place so you can actually try them on, but it keeps it in place while you sew, so they don't move and end up some place you didn't want them. Just make sure you're using large enough safety pins so they don't come apart and poke you.
Im soon to be 54 years old and my teacher just approved me to get my very first set of pointe shoes. It’s been a dream since I was a child. I will be getting fitted at The Pointe Shop and wish I could get fitted by you but I understand that probably won’t be feasible. I cannot wait to be able to prepare my shoes, it’s like an initiation. 🥰. So happy!
@@TaurusMoon-hu3pdyoure going to absolutely love it! I’m trying to get back into it. I have my first class in almost a year this Friday. Good luck and enjoy the fun journey.
I stared attending ballet classes as adult after 30 - most of the time I enjoy every moment, but from time to time I compare myself with teens, their flexibity, no fear of turn en pointe, their stamina etc etc, and fall into self despise. It's sooo true not to compare :-) hope to get to have a fitting with you ♡♡♡
I’ve always loved ballet, even after getting kicked out as a kid for having too much energy to be disciplined in it, and your last question about adults getting their first pair of pointe shoes made me tear up. I want so much to learn and get en pointe and I just worry I’ve gotten too old. This gives me hope! Maybe one day, I can get fitted by Josephine if I take the plunge and get involved!
I started last year in lockdown over Zoom and got to go ahead for my first pair of pointes very recently - I'm 25 now! Would definitely say go for it, it's such a joy (in flats, pointe /hurts/)
I started taking ballet in May this year- the first time ever in my life and I'm now 36. I don't regret it and am so glad I finally had the opportunity to do so. It's better to try it now than to live life wishing you had.
Do it!! I got my first pair of pointe shoes this summer. . .at age 51! I started ballet at age 47 and I love it! (PS I would have been one of those kids who had too much energy to be disciplined too. I still struggle with that some days, but believe it or not ballet focuses my mind more than almost anything else. . .) I hope you go for it!!!
Man, I needed you when I was on pointe, back in 1982! I was attending class six days a week, and I was put in Capezios that were bricks. Mom didn’t want to pay for that much ballet and knocked me down to two days a week. During that time, the store where I bought my shoes was out of the bricks and I got a pair of Freeds. They were divine! After those died (very quickly) I was back to the bricks that cut my feet up. We had three nights of recitals in a row, and I was literally a bloody mess. Mom and dad had to pay me to stay up. I couldn’t properly roll through without it chopping into the sides of my feet and my toes bleeding. And then I quit and started taking jazz classes.
I literally don’t even dance, I figure skate, but these videos are too addicting. Also these are all questions I’ve had just as an outsider to the ballet world. Thanks for the new information!!!
Dear Josephine, I was inspired to try out an adult beginner's class from watching your videos. It's been a year, I'm loving it (my body's loving it), and I've made some wonderful friends along the way. Thank you, and have a lovely New Year!
I'm an adult dancer 😀 got my first pair of pointe shoes a couple of months ago, and low key it was the best day of my life 😂 because I'd been watching your videos for a while I knew what felt good and what felt bad, I'd ended up with a great pair! Although because of my very flexible feet, the shank had to be harder which has been a pain to break in 😂
WHERE WAS THIS when I first started pointe?!?!? I also spent 3 hours sewing my first pair because online instructions are so vague. Thank you for showing EXACTLY how to measure elastics and ribbon with your foot, and how to stitch around the satin and drawstring. This is so detailed and amazing. Thank you Josephine
I'm turning 51 tomorrow 🙈and I've been really thinking about starting ballet. I've never danced in my entire life (maybe the hokey pokey at weddings, makarena, etc 😂😂😂) so maybe I'm flying way too high and shouldn't even attempt it. Maybe adult learners shouldn't take a ballet route (i would love to get on pointe) if they're way older and have never danced before. I'm not sure. 😢 Like, my age is 51. My brain is convinced I'm still 27, but many times my body feels 102. So I'm truly not sure if ballet is being over enthusiast and will just lead to failure.
@@SariennMusic73Happy birthday! I'm 53 and have been looking into private beginner lessons. Let them laugh. I don't care. I really want to do this. Good luck to you!😂💗
@@SariennMusic73Hi I'm 51 also! You should do it! I recommend finding a dance studio that is on the relaxed side with adult classes if possible. I have been the only adult in a class of 12-18 year olds and it was okay (American style,) this was actually my favorite studio lesson-wise. I was also in an all adult class at a very picky (Russian style) studio and I didn't enjoy it that much as I wasn't trying to be a professional and it was just too nit-picky for me at my age. Now I am at a relaxed American style studio with adult ballet and point classes and it is very nice except the classes are very late and I'm so tired and sore from work before I even start class. They only have beginning pointe class for adults and there are no prerequisites other than taking ballet class. Most of it is very basic and at the barre. (At the Russian studio you had to take 3 adult ballet classes a week for a year before you could take a beginner pointe class.) So it really depends on the studio and what you are looking for. But I say go for it!
@@SariennMusic73 I would say it's all about the journey. I'm 43 with Psoriatic Arthritis and looking into ballet as exercise to help with flexibility, motion and overall fitness. Will I ever get on pointe? I don't know but doing the work along the way will be great for my overall health and well being regardless. That's the way I'm looking at it and maybe you can too. ❤️❤️
I so needed that advice and encouragement for the adult dancer on pointe for the first time. I started this summer and, well it didn't go so well. I'm starting again in a few weeks and I'm even more excited and more prepared than last time. It's a sprint, not a marathon, a journey and not an event. All the best to all adults starting pointe for the first time!
I commented a few months ago I was approved to get my first pair of pointe shoes. Well last month I rolled my ankle at work. Just found out yesterday a bone in my ankle is fractured. So no getting my first pair of pointe shoes for me. All of my classmates just had a pointe shoe sewing party tonight. I’m so happy for all of them, they all worked hard for it. My dream was almost a reality. Oh well everything happens for a reason.
Thank you! I'm 35 and ballet was my quarantine skill/hobby that I learned. This channel has been key in my understanding of the mechanics of ballet footwork, as opposed to simply knowing the movements. Anything technical that further explains how footwork plays into ballet and how to strengthen certain parts of the feet for pointe would be most helpful! Thank you for everything you do!
Thank you for this and the many other videos. I love ballet, but was discouraged from pursuing ballet both as a child and later as an adult because my body didn't exactly fit the "type" (was told my butt was "too big", though the teachers complimented me on my feet, long arms, neck and legs.. ). So, I now vicariously enjoy ballet through watching performances and your videos! Keep doing what you do, as you are bringing the joy of ballet to many. 💙
love the message to adult dancers in this ❤ also, quick tip if you're having trouble threading your needle: rotate the needle 180 degrees and try to rethread. When needles are manufactured, the eye is punched out so one side will always be easier to get the thread through then the other
A hint for sewing, look for a "Needle puller" it is usually a round piece of soft leather used to help you hold onto a needle and pull it through heavy fabric. Find them in the sewing notions online or at sewing centers or quilting stores. You hold the puller between your fingers and hold it over the needle, the friction makes sewing so much easier. I am not a dancer unless you consider a Texas Two Step, but I do sew. Also a thimble to protect the end of your finger when pushing the needle through the shoe. Love watching your videos!
Very good video, it would have helped me 4 years ago when I had my first pair of pointes... In France we don't have the same way of doing things but that would have given me the basics. But i'm sure it will help a lot of people!
@@nathalieenys we sew the elastics into the liner and not over it, so that it is not visible. and to sew them we only make a kind of straight line under the part of the liner to tighten, we do not go around all the elastic.
I loved hearing what you said about adult ballet dancers! I started just under two years ago and am absolutely in love! Thank you for encouraging us to not rush the process though. It is so easy to want to be perfect at everything. So thank you :)
I'm 25 and I am getting my first pair of shoes tomorrow! I am so excited! this video helped me out a lot to know what to look for and the general idea of it all
I’m an adult who just got their first pair of pointe shoes and I appreciated this video so much!! 💕💕 especially you answering the question about adults on pointe for the first time, so so important to remember ❤️
🩰🫶 *My daughter loved getting her 1st pair of point shoes with you. She is so excited she has her first class tonight. I searched "point shoe ribbon sewing," and your video popped up. What a small world!!!! **#1stpairofpointshoes** **#pointshoesewing* 😃
CONGRATS ON 100K SUBSCRIBERS🥳🎊🎊🎊🥳🥳🥳 I just want to say thank you for bot only helping me with my pointe shoes but also cheering me up when I have rough times.🥰 Thank you so much ❤💖💖
I took Ballet as a teenager for just a year. I went back as an adult and after a few months asked if it was possible if I could someday get en pointe. The teacher told me I was too old. I cried all the way home. I still want to do it but I don't know where to go where I live. I love your videos!!
I got my first pair of pointe shoes last week, I haven't sewed them yet, but this information will definitely help. I plan to sew my pointe shoes with another experience dancer in my class to guide me when sewing. So excited!
I am 33 years old and I’ve started taking ballet classes 3 months ago, so it’s gonna take a while before I can go on pointe, even tho my teacher is gonna put me in the advanced class once a week, cause she says it looks like I’ve done it before. I can’t wait to go on pointe but I’m enjoying so much even the simplest of barre exercises and learning new steps! Doing ballet has always been a dream of mine!
I'm in a similar situation as you- I'm 36 and started taking ballet back in May. One time in class last month, my teacher mentioned to me in passing that she has to get me in pointe shoes [sooner than later]. I know I still have more to learn, and more strengthening and flexibility to attain, but I'm excited that she sees the potential in me. I've teased her about me going on pointe because I'm a tall girl as it is (~5'10") and my teacher is a few inches shorter than me- how is she going to make corrections to my arms when I'm on pointe? 🙃😂
@@katherinemurphy2762 that is a good point! 😂 But it sounds amazing, that’s so good that she’s already mentioning putting you on pointe! It means you’re doing a good job!
I just got my first pair of pointe shoes today!!!! I did classical ballet for 5 years before switching to a multi-style studio, this delayed the age I would get my pointe shoes at by a year (I’m 13) But today my childhood dream finally came true and I’m so excited! Your video helped so much thank you!
3rd! Thank for this video Josephine, I haven't got recommended of pointe shoes yet, and I'm hoping I'll get them this year! I will save this video for later, and now I know what to do when I get them lol!
I've always loved dancing and I've wanted to do ballet since I was like 8 years old. I was a chubby child and comments telling me I'm too fat to do ballet stopped me from even trying. I'm now 32 and I desperately want to dance ballet, thank you for your uplifting comments, they meant a lot to me as someone with very low self esteem for most of my life
dear josephine, hi! Although you may not know me, i was informed by my dance teacher that you will be fitting my 1st pointe shoes in just six days! I would just like to say i’m a big fan of your videos and look forward to meeting you.
This was SO delightful. I did adult ballet when I was in my 20s, and what I love most is barre. I am now FAR too heavy and out of shape to do ballet (or even walk very far), but I'd held onto "maybe I could go back to ballet when..." as a lure for me to treat myself better. Just before Thanksgiving, I fell (literally stepping off a curb to get into my car: I just...lost my balance) and sprained both ankles and shattered the right ankle with an open tib-fib with displacement. After the first to my two surgeries, I asked my surgeon, "So, is my ballet career over?" and he was like, "Oh, YES." I may never do pointe...but...maybe I'll still have a chance at returning to adult barre work...and maybe, just maybe, I'd still get to point with a plate, an anchor, and 7 screws in my ankle. I'm still going to LOVE and watch your videos and vicariously enjoy the beauty of pointe and ballet, though. 🙂😀😃
Maybe check out The Knees Over Toes Guy here on yt. He does ankle/knee strengthening exercises that he started after getting a partial kneecap replacement surgery. Doctors said basketball was over for him and he ended up doubling his vertical jump. If nothing else, strengthening your weakened ankle won’t hurt, and maybe you’ll end up proving the doctor wrong. (But definitely listen to your body!)
@@courtneywashburn1905, thanks for the recommendation! I mean, there's a LOT of work for me to do, and my doc isn't wrong about the severity of the DEGREE of injury I did to myself.
Hi Josephine. You fitted me when you did Pointe shoe fittings at hosanna dance. I'm finally getting used to my 1st pair of pointe shoes and I'm moving up a level . Thank you for coming to Oregon to do The people of hosanna's fittings
I am 69 and got my first pair of pointe shoes at 11 after dancing seriously since 5. All through my career there was nothing called a pointe shoes fitter. You just went to Capezios and bought your size. Our feet bled so hard the shoes were stained. That's just the way it was. I am so envious of you guys. Our shoes were impossible in so many wats
Hey Josephine I was hoping you could do a video on how to deal with shrinking feet with pointe! It's always a struggle for me in classes and also causes my heal to fall and to slightly sink. Love your videos! PS. I have Suffolk Sovereigns.
I remember watching this a year or so ago. I wanted pointe shoes soooooo bad but I wasn’t ready for them. My first ever fitting is today and I’m so excited!! Thank you Josephine for making this video ur a lifesaver 🫶🫶🫶
Could you make a video like this one, just how to safely break in your first pair of pointe shoes? I love your videos, and I’m going en pointe next year! ❤
I wish they did adult ballet where I live. I really want to learn pointe, but I’m not comfortable learning pointe on my own. I can do off point fairly well. That I’m comfortable learning. I thought I was too old at 30, but now know there is no such thing. So maybe one day
I have chosen to believe in you, and I am stubborn. You are going to do it and I know you are going to be amazing, and every time you go to whatever class you find, you will know that some random lady out there is believing in you with her whole heart and you can do it for both of us!
I know you probably won’t ever see this, but if you or anyone in ballet could answer this I would be forever grateful. My lifelong dream was to be a ballerina. My parents couldn’t afford it so dancing was something I didn’t get to do until high school (ballet/jazz). Literally two years later I was told by my doctors that I wasn’t going to be able to continue. I’ve been severely restricted in activities since. I found out that I have EDS and will never be able to go up en pointe. I’ve discussed a middle ground, which is being completely supported by my upper body allowing me to have the illusion of my dream without harm. What kind of shoe would you recommend in this case? I know a fitting is impractical for two (essentially aesthetic) uses. I intend NO disrespect to everyone who has worked so so hard to achieve this. I have watched you from afar wishing I could be part of this. I did everything I could but this is literally my only way of ticking off my oldest bucket list item. My health is getting worse so it’s not possible to do it the right way. I know they should be earned, but it will truly break my heart if I’m not able to wear them once in my life before I’m finally wheelchair-bound (getting harder to walk outside of my house without assistance). Any help is really appreciated.
I always sew just ribbons until I've worn my shoes in class and then I add elastics as needed :) for my last pair I had a single elastic over the front of the shoe and a loop of thin elastic at the heel to thread the ribbons through (the heel was slipping) which I then changed to a loop of thick elastic which went round my ankle. pair before that I had elastics in a cross over the front and the pair before that I didn't use elastics at all! so just know you don't necessarily need elastics😊
Hey! Can you make a video to help dancers fit themselves in pointe shoes? In my city there's one place I can buy my pointe shoes and the Sellers don't know a lot about fitting shoes... So if you could give me some tips for the next time I need to buy them, I would be so greatful! Also your videos are very helpful to me so thank you!! 💕✨🩰
If you are an adult, especially, make sure the fitting person listens to you, don't let them try to convince you to buy something that doesn't feel quite right to you because there are some fitters out there that want to put people in certain brands that are more expensive for instance. Had this experience myself. When you get re-fitted for a second or third pair, or later on when your needs change, just make sure you believe in your ability to listen to your body and don't let someone tell you a shoe that say, feels a bit too wide is actually your correct size. It also helps if you know the names of all the parts of the shoe, so you can immediately tell the fitter what part of the shoe isn't right as you try different ones and different sizes.
Watching in 2023, was not sure if I remembered correctly on sewing pointe. I stopped ballet in 2012 and on my last month was when I started en pointe. That was also the year I started college. I bought a pair of pointe shoes and ballet shoes to get back on ballet this year.
can you please do a video on how to tie the ribbons on pointe shoes? or you could do a fun one where you try to guess the brands of pointe shoes just by looking at someone wear them
My feet are super boney so finding the right kind of padding is hard as my feet are also wide and long but my heel is super narrow. My shoes tend to slip off my heels. My teacher recommended doing crisscross elastic but I am scared to mess them up. Also I would love a part two!!!
Will you please make a video reviewing/giving your honest opinion about La Pointe by Wear Moi pointe shoes? If it helps, I have super narrow feet and high arches.
For anybody who wears gaynor Minden’s, I found a way to break them in. I have super flexy feet and couldn’t get other them because the shank wasn’t molding to my foot. I got the whole shoe wet with water and then did some releves and demi pointe walks. After those dried I took a hair dryer to it and molded the shank to my foot while I was in a forced arch and once the shank cooled down I bent it all the way to the ground. I know it seems crazy but it’s one of the ways I got the new European gaynors to work.
New year, new series?! 🧐 Let us know if you like this 'everything u need to know' format.
Comment below suggestions for any other tutorial/instructional videos you want!!!
hope your holidays have been very happy & wishing you all a merry new year ♥
I have always wanted to do ballet, and I'm hoping to do so in the next few years (I'm almost 27). As a potential adult ballet dancer, I'd love to see any and all recommendations and tips about starting ballet later in life. I love learning all these things about pointe shoes!
Everything you need to know... about "aging gracefully" as a ballet student. What are the kinds of foot (or other) injuries you might be more prone to than the teenagers I dance with? What to be aware of & how to avoid issues if your family has a history of arthritis & osteoporosis? Are there warning signs where your body's telling you that you might be too old to be on pointe or to be dancing safely? I'm not there, yet, thank goodness, but with my family history, it's definitely on my mind.
hello I was wondering how long approximatively does it take for an adult ballet dancer to go on pointe?
(I started not long ago, I always dreamt to dance. Now I m 20, studying medicine and loving my classes! Dance is such a good and healthy way to take all the stress out (my studies aren't so called relaxing haha 😅)
I m trying to do as much sport as possible on the side (I have ehler danlos syndrome so it's not always easy but sport is certainly a good way to strengthen myself and my joints, I love it) and to go to the gym 2 to 3 times a week at last)
I have a question: I've always thought I have pretty good arches (I mean not amazing, but pretty good) but every shoe I wear, my arches never have any shape and just look really stiff until they are not supportive anymore. I wear a soft shank. Do I need different shoes or am I doing something wrong?
hello! quick question. Is your arch where you sew on your ribbons at the bottom of the heel/top of your arch? or near the middle?
Been on pointe for 13 years, and honestly letting your foot break the shoe in is the best when you are a student. It lets you know where you need to get your shoes to soften in future and helps to strengthen your feet. I only break my shoes in if I have a show, otherwise I let my feet do the work. The shoes are also more comfortable that way in my opinion.
Thanks, I’m pretty new to en pointe and I’ll try this out.
@@pengii6804 You're welcome. I hope you enjoy it😁
Our teacher told us to let our feet break the shoes.I am also new it is very beautiful to get tips from profesional ballerina😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
I agree!!! Plus it will make your first pair(s) last longer since you’re not doing any strenuous pointe work and probably not dancing in them for long periods of time.
I mostly break mine in with my foot but I did need to slightly break in the shank on my left foot because I was not completely getting over my box on that side. My teacher was the one who told me I needed to so I just listen to her. Other than that you should let your foot break it in to gain the muscle and training you need. My left foot is just less flexible than my right foot so I needed to even them out so I didn’t break my ankle lol
I just got fitted into my first pair of pointe shoe and I am 26. I am honestly so relieved by what you just said about adults getting their first pointe. The lady fitting me was more than surprised as well, she said I am as joyeous as a 3 year-old about it and it is so overwhelming to see such passion in adults. At first, I was like "will they think I'm crazy", but then I just went with it, because we all have only one life. All my life I have been told by my very conservative family that I cannot do ballet because I don't have the BODY for it. I was never slim, but not fat either. But since I never had slim legs, they said " oh hell no, you'll look like an elephant or miss piggy ". I never got the chance so I am giving myself the chance now.
Funnily enough, the lady fitting me has been doing ballet for 20 years, she doesn't have slim legs either and she said having muscular legs like mine are actually a great help in ballet. lol @ my family
"An elephant or Miss Piggy"??!! Wth?! What an incredibly rude and nasty thing to say to anyone, let alone your own child. I'm so sorry you had to go through being told that by the people who are supposed to be your biggest supporters.
My parents took the view that it was their role to help me figure out what I enjoyed doing and was good at for myself. If I wanted to try something (within reason), I could. For example, I have zero musical ability, but my parents still paid for music lessons on 2 different instruments until I'd figured that out for myself. I also did trampolining, which I was never going to be any good at (wrong body shape), but I kept doing it because I enjoyed it. I set myself the goal to keep improving, not to be "good" at it, because it gave me pleasure. The only reason I'm not still doing it now, in later life, is because of health problems.
I'm glad you were finally able to try something you'd always wanted to try and are enjoying it. I hope you didn't and don't let what your family told you get you down or hold you back too much.
@PonderingStudent You're very blessed. My grandmother made comments similar to what the original commenter said.
Some people just suck.
With so many potential issues around how a pointe shoe fits in class, especially for students new to pointe, have you considered making fit cards for the teachers and students? Imagine a card/diary you fill out that may provide words and pictures to describe something they wouldn't know how to themselves. Teachers can send students back with the card if something isn't quite right and you don't have to rely on an inexperienced student to relay that information. The students then can also begin to recognize patterns so if something changes it's more apparent. Kinda like a food sensitivity journal: I did this in class and it felt like this in my shoe.
Just a tip. I actually really like using a safety pin to decide where I want to place my ribbons and elastics. Not only does the safety pin hold them in place so you can actually try them on, but it keeps it in place while you sew, so they don't move and end up some place you didn't want them. Just make sure you're using large enough safety pins so they don't come apart and poke you.
Im soon to be 54 years old and my teacher just approved me to get my very first set of pointe shoes. It’s been a dream since I was a child. I will be getting fitted at The Pointe Shop and wish I could get fitted by you but I understand that probably won’t be feasible. I cannot wait to be able to prepare my shoes, it’s like an initiation. 🥰. So happy!
Congrats! I turn 54 this year and am just starting. 💗
@@TaurusMoon-hu3pdyoure going to absolutely love it! I’m trying to get back into it. I have my first class in almost a year this Friday. Good luck and enjoy the fun journey.
@@lisabrattoli4283 You too!! Enjoy that Friday class. 💗
I stared attending ballet classes as adult after 30 - most of the time I enjoy every moment, but from time to time I compare myself with teens, their flexibity, no fear of turn en pointe, their stamina etc etc, and fall into self despise. It's sooo true not to compare :-) hope to get to have a fitting with you ♡♡♡
I’ve always loved ballet, even after getting kicked out as a kid for having too much energy to be disciplined in it, and your last question about adults getting their first pair of pointe shoes made me tear up. I want so much to learn and get en pointe and I just worry I’ve gotten too old. This gives me hope! Maybe one day, I can get fitted by Josephine if I take the plunge and get involved!
The age thing is mostly for going pro (in most cases!) but it's never too late to learn and do pointe!
I started last year in lockdown over Zoom and got to go ahead for my first pair of pointes very recently - I'm 25 now! Would definitely say go for it, it's such a joy (in flats, pointe /hurts/)
I started taking ballet in May this year- the first time ever in my life and I'm now 36. I don't regret it and am so glad I finally had the opportunity to do so. It's better to try it now than to live life wishing you had.
OMG I got kicked out as well!!! 😂😂
Do it!! I got my first pair of pointe shoes this summer. . .at age 51! I started ballet at age 47 and I love it! (PS I would have been one of those kids who had too much energy to be disciplined too. I still struggle with that some days, but believe it or not ballet focuses my mind more than almost anything else. . .) I hope you go for it!!!
Man, I needed you when I was on pointe, back in 1982! I was attending class six days a week, and I was put in Capezios that were bricks. Mom didn’t want to pay for that much ballet and knocked me down to two days a week. During that time, the store where I bought my shoes was out of the bricks and I got a pair of Freeds. They were divine! After those died (very quickly) I was back to the bricks that cut my feet up. We had three nights of recitals in a row, and I was literally a bloody mess. Mom and dad had to pay me to stay up. I couldn’t properly roll through without it chopping into the sides of my feet and my toes bleeding.
And then I quit and started taking jazz classes.
I literally don’t even dance, I figure skate, but these videos are too addicting. Also these are all questions I’ve had just as an outsider to the ballet world. Thanks for the new information!!!
Ballet goes well with figure skating! It could benefit you a lot if you wanted to try it
I am also a figure skater and I am obsessed with these videos! (I am not competitive. Just lessons and the occasional show)
I got back into ballet (i used to dsnce but quit as a kid) bc of figure skating! Ballet can be good for holding ur spins longer and being stronger
I’m a dancer but I love watching figure skating videos
Dear Josephine, I was inspired to try out an adult beginner's class from watching your videos. It's been a year, I'm loving it (my body's loving it), and I've made some wonderful friends along the way. Thank you, and have a lovely New Year!
I'm also an adult ballerina, although I did dance as a child. I so want to go en pointe after watching these videos
I'm an adult dancer 😀 got my first pair of pointe shoes a couple of months ago, and low key it was the best day of my life 😂 because I'd been watching your videos for a while I knew what felt good and what felt bad, I'd ended up with a great pair! Although because of my very flexible feet, the shank had to be harder which has been a pain to break in 😂
WHERE WAS THIS when I first started pointe?!?!?
I also spent 3 hours sewing my first pair because online instructions are so vague. Thank you for showing EXACTLY how to measure elastics and ribbon with your foot, and how to stitch around the satin and drawstring. This is so detailed and amazing. Thank you Josephine
Josephine, I am ready to be your joy! 🤣 I am 50 and started ballet again almost two years ago and just started on pointe again on may 2021!🤗🌸
I'm turning 51 tomorrow 🙈and I've been really thinking about starting ballet. I've never danced in my entire life (maybe the hokey pokey at weddings, makarena, etc 😂😂😂) so maybe I'm flying way too high and shouldn't even attempt it. Maybe adult learners shouldn't take a ballet route (i would love to get on pointe) if they're way older and have never danced before. I'm not sure. 😢
Like, my age is 51. My brain is convinced I'm still 27, but many times my body feels 102. So I'm truly not sure if ballet is being over enthusiast and will just lead to failure.
@@SariennMusic73Happy birthday! I'm 53 and have been looking into private beginner lessons. Let them laugh. I don't care. I really want to do this. Good luck to you!😂💗
@@SariennMusic73Hi I'm 51 also! You should do it! I recommend finding a dance studio that is on the relaxed side with adult classes if possible.
I have been the only adult in a class of 12-18 year olds and it was okay (American style,) this was actually my favorite studio lesson-wise.
I was also in an all adult class at a very picky (Russian style) studio and I didn't enjoy it that much as I wasn't trying to be a professional and it was just too nit-picky for me at my age.
Now I am at a relaxed American style studio with adult ballet and point classes and it is very nice except the classes are very late and I'm so tired and sore from work before I even start class.
They only have beginning pointe class for adults and there are no prerequisites other than taking ballet class. Most of it is very basic and at the barre. (At the Russian studio you had to take 3 adult ballet classes a week for a year before you could take a beginner pointe class.) So it really depends on the studio and what you are looking for. But I say go for it!
@@SariennMusic73 I would say it's all about the journey. I'm 43 with Psoriatic Arthritis and looking into ballet as exercise to help with flexibility, motion and overall fitness. Will I ever get on pointe? I don't know but doing the work along the way will be great for my overall health and well being regardless. That's the way I'm looking at it and maybe you can too. ❤️❤️
I so needed that advice and encouragement for the adult dancer on pointe for the first time. I started this summer and, well it didn't go so well. I'm starting again in a few weeks and I'm even more excited and more prepared than last time. It's a sprint, not a marathon, a journey and not an event. All the best to all adults starting pointe for the first time!
I commented a few months ago I was approved to get my first pair of pointe shoes. Well last month I rolled my ankle at work. Just found out yesterday a bone in my ankle is fractured. So no getting my first pair of pointe shoes for me. All of my classmates just had a pointe shoe sewing party tonight. I’m so happy for all of them, they all worked hard for it. My dream was almost a reality. Oh well everything happens for a reason.
Thank you! I'm 35 and ballet was my quarantine skill/hobby that I learned. This channel has been key in my understanding of the mechanics of ballet footwork, as opposed to simply knowing the movements. Anything technical that further explains how footwork plays into ballet and how to strengthen certain parts of the feet for pointe would be most helpful! Thank you for everything you do!
Thank you for this and the many other videos. I love ballet, but was discouraged from pursuing ballet both as a child and later as an adult because my body didn't exactly fit the "type" (was told my butt was "too big", though the teachers complimented me on my feet, long arms, neck and legs.. ). So, I now vicariously enjoy ballet through watching performances and your videos! Keep doing what you do, as you are bringing the joy of ballet to many. 💙
love the message to adult dancers in this ❤ also, quick tip if you're having trouble threading your needle: rotate the needle 180 degrees and try to rethread. When needles are manufactured, the eye is punched out so one side will always be easier to get the thread through then the other
I have been sewing for 40 years and did not know that! 🙄😬😱😳
A hint for sewing, look for a "Needle puller" it is usually a round piece of soft leather used to help you hold onto a needle and pull it through heavy fabric. Find them in the sewing notions online or at sewing centers or quilting stores. You hold the puller between your fingers and hold it over the needle, the friction makes sewing so much easier. I am not a dancer unless you consider a Texas Two Step, but I do sew. Also a thimble to protect the end of your finger when pushing the needle through the shoe. Love watching your videos!
Very good video, it would have helped me 4 years ago when I had my first pair of pointes... In France we don't have the same way of doing things but that would have given me the basics. But i'm sure it will help a lot of people!
What’s different about how you do things in France? x
@@nathalieenys we sew the elastics into the liner and not over it, so that it is not visible. and to sew them we only make a kind of straight line under the part of the liner to tighten, we do not go around all the elastic.
I loved hearing what you said about adult ballet dancers! I started just under two years ago and am absolutely in love! Thank you for encouraging us to not rush the process though. It is so easy to want to be perfect at everything. So thank you :)
I'm 25 and I am getting my first pair of shoes tomorrow! I am so excited! this video helped me out a lot to know what to look for and the general idea of it all
I’m an adult who just got their first pair of pointe shoes and I appreciated this video so much!! 💕💕 especially you answering the question about adults on pointe for the first time, so so important to remember ❤️
🩰🫶 *My daughter loved getting her 1st pair of point shoes with you. She is so excited she has her first class tonight. I searched "point shoe ribbon sewing," and your video popped up. What a small world!!!! **#1stpairofpointshoes** **#pointshoesewing* 😃
I'm getting my first pair of Pointe shoes this weekend and I can't wait! 😁 this video should help me so much thank you🥰
CONGRATS ON 100K SUBSCRIBERS🥳🎊🎊🎊🥳🥳🥳
I just want to say thank you for bot only helping me with my pointe shoes but also cheering me up when I have rough times.🥰
Thank you so much ❤💖💖
I took Ballet as a teenager for just a year. I went back as an adult and after a few months asked if it was possible if I could someday get en pointe. The teacher told me I was too old. I cried all the way home. I still want to do it but I don't know where to go where I live. I love your videos!!
I just got fitted at your Santa Ana store on July 20, 2022. Thank you so much for answering these questions for us. Love you Josephine!!!
I got my first pair of pointe shoes last week, I haven't sewed them yet, but this information will definitely help. I plan to sew my pointe shoes with another experience dancer in my class to guide me when sewing. So excited!
I’m getting fitted with you guys this Saturday for my first pair!! 🥰🥰
I am 33 years old and I’ve started taking ballet classes 3 months ago, so it’s gonna take a while before I can go on pointe, even tho my teacher is gonna put me in the advanced class once a week, cause she says it looks like I’ve done it before.
I can’t wait to go on pointe but I’m enjoying so much even the simplest of barre exercises and learning new steps! Doing ballet has always been a dream of mine!
I'm in a similar situation as you- I'm 36 and started taking ballet back in May. One time in class last month, my teacher mentioned to me in passing that she has to get me in pointe shoes [sooner than later]. I know I still have more to learn, and more strengthening and flexibility to attain, but I'm excited that she sees the potential in me. I've teased her about me going on pointe because I'm a tall girl as it is (~5'10") and my teacher is a few inches shorter than me- how is she going to make corrections to my arms when I'm on pointe? 🙃😂
@@katherinemurphy2762 that is a good point! 😂
But it sounds amazing, that’s so good that she’s already mentioning putting you on pointe! It means you’re doing a good job!
I just got my first pair of pointe shoes today!!!! I did classical ballet for 5 years before switching to a multi-style studio, this delayed the age I would get my pointe shoes at by a year (I’m 13) But today my childhood dream finally came true and I’m so excited! Your video helped so much thank you!
When I was 11 to 17, I had a pointe shoe sewing business. I charged $3 for elastics, $5 for ribbons, and $20 for darning ^__^
I liked the way you explained every details, including exactly how to fix the elastics and ribbons.
Thank you so much!! I’m getting my first pair of pointe shoes next Friday ( Jan 7th ) and this video helped so much!
Congrats! Good luck 😊
3rd! Thank for this video Josephine, I haven't got recommended of pointe shoes yet, and I'm hoping I'll get them this year! I will save this video for later, and now I know what to do when I get them lol!
lol I know exactly how you feel I just got recommended for pointe shoes and I am so excited to get them good luck😁😁
I've always loved dancing and I've wanted to do ballet since I was like 8 years old. I was a chubby child and comments telling me I'm too fat to do ballet stopped me from even trying. I'm now 32 and I desperately want to dance ballet, thank you for your uplifting comments, they meant a lot to me as someone with very low self esteem for most of my life
dear josephine,
hi! Although you may not know me, i was informed by my dance teacher that you will be fitting my 1st pointe shoes in just six days! I would just like to say i’m a big fan of your videos and look forward to meeting you.
This is a great video with great timing as I am getting my first pair in two hours :D
i’m getting my first pair this week!! i’m soooooooooo excited!
i don't do ballet, don't intend to, and yet these videos are always so much fun
This was SO delightful.
I did adult ballet when I was in my 20s, and what I love most is barre. I am now FAR too heavy and out of shape to do ballet (or even walk very far), but I'd held onto "maybe I could go back to ballet when..." as a lure for me to treat myself better.
Just before Thanksgiving, I fell (literally stepping off a curb to get into my car: I just...lost my balance) and sprained both ankles and shattered the right ankle with an open tib-fib with displacement. After the first to my two surgeries, I asked my surgeon, "So, is my ballet career over?" and he was like, "Oh, YES." I may never do pointe...but...maybe I'll still have a chance at returning to adult barre work...and maybe, just maybe, I'd still get to point with a plate, an anchor, and 7 screws in my ankle.
I'm still going to LOVE and watch your videos and vicariously enjoy the beauty of pointe and ballet, though. 🙂😀😃
Maybe check out The Knees Over Toes Guy here on yt. He does ankle/knee strengthening exercises that he started after getting a partial kneecap replacement surgery. Doctors said basketball was over for him and he ended up doubling his vertical jump. If nothing else, strengthening your weakened ankle won’t hurt, and maybe you’ll end up proving the doctor wrong. (But definitely listen to your body!)
@@courtneywashburn1905, thanks for the recommendation! I mean, there's a LOT of work for me to do, and my doc isn't wrong about the severity of the DEGREE of injury I did to myself.
I already have pointe shoes, but I always learn a lot! Thank you!
Hi Josephine. You fitted me when you did Pointe shoe fittings at hosanna dance. I'm finally getting used to my 1st pair of pointe shoes and I'm moving up a level . Thank you for coming to Oregon to do The people of hosanna's fittings
I am 69 and got my first pair of pointe shoes at 11 after dancing seriously since 5. All through my career there was nothing called a pointe shoes fitter. You just went to Capezios and bought your size. Our feet bled so hard the shoes were stained. That's just the way it was. I am so envious of you guys. Our shoes were impossible in so many wats
Wow an amazing video, I hope you keep doing this kind of tutorial videos 🥰♥
this is soooo helpful i just got my very first pair of pointe shoes ever yesterday! so this will really help me get more info on pointe shoes❤❤❤
Congratulations on 100k Subs!
You inspire me and make me want to get back to dance.
Hey Josephine I was hoping you could do a video on how to deal with shrinking feet with pointe! It's always a struggle for me in classes and also causes my heal to fall and to slightly sink. Love your videos! PS. I have Suffolk Sovereigns.
I just got my pointe shoes today!! I get fitted tomorrow, and my first class is on Friday! I’m soo excited!!! :D
Yeyyyy after Christmas I will be on pointe for my first time and I am soooo excited !!!Also congrats on 100k 😁😁
Omg perfect timing I literally just got the okay from my teacher
a thank you for this, i get my first pair of pointe shoes in three days and i'm so excited.
I remember watching this a year or so ago. I wanted pointe shoes soooooo bad but I wasn’t ready for them. My first ever fitting is today and I’m so excited!! Thank you Josephine for making this video ur a lifesaver 🫶🫶🫶
I’m getting my first pair of pointe shoes this week, such great timing :)
I looked at so many videos for this, and this video is the best one! This helped so much! Thank you so much!!!!!
this is perfect timing, i just got my first pair today!!
Thank you! This was very helpful! I'm excited to come to the pointe shop to get my first pair of pointe shoes next week!
I’m getting my first pair of pointe shoes tomorrow and I’m so excited!
Could you make a video like this one, just how to safely break in your first pair of pointe shoes? I love your videos, and I’m going en pointe next year! ❤
CONGRATS ON 100K!! YOU DESERVE IT AND MORE OFC :) I’ve been subbed since 75k subs
u were the only video i found that explained very well thank u sooo much....
I'm so excited! I'm starting pointe on sunday!
I wish they did adult ballet where I live. I really want to learn pointe, but I’m not comfortable learning pointe on my own. I can do off point fairly well. That I’m comfortable learning. I thought I was too old at 30, but now know there is no such thing. So maybe one day
If you have a space to practice try Broche Ballet. They are an online ballet school just for adults. They also have a pointe programme.
I have chosen to believe in you, and I am stubborn. You are going to do it and I know you are going to be amazing, and every time you go to whatever class you find, you will know that some random lady out there is believing in you with her whole heart and you can do it for both of us!
Trying out in 2 weeks for the level i start pointe! i’m so so so excited and i hope i make it
Thank you Josephine this video really helped me. I love your videos 💗
Can you please do a video on how to use loop elastic ribbons (already sewn on) on pointe shoes? Thank you!💗
I'm getting my first pointe shoes tomorrow, so excited!
I just my first pair this year so this will help 😊 first!
I know you probably won’t ever see this, but if you or anyone in ballet could answer this I would be forever grateful.
My lifelong dream was to be a ballerina. My parents couldn’t afford it so dancing was something I didn’t get to do until high school (ballet/jazz). Literally two years later I was told by my doctors that I wasn’t going to be able to continue. I’ve been severely restricted in activities since. I found out that I have EDS and will never be able to go up en pointe. I’ve discussed a middle ground, which is being completely supported by my upper body allowing me to have the illusion of my dream without harm.
What kind of shoe would you recommend in this case? I know a fitting is impractical for two (essentially aesthetic) uses.
I intend NO disrespect to everyone who has worked so so hard to achieve this. I have watched you from afar wishing I could be part of this. I did everything I could but this is literally my only way of ticking off my oldest bucket list item. My health is getting worse so it’s not possible to do it the right way. I know they should be earned, but it will truly break my heart if I’m not able to wear them once in my life before I’m finally wheelchair-bound (getting harder to walk outside of my house without assistance).
Any help is really appreciated.
How to store your pointe shoes might be helpful! And how to darn them :) xxxx thank you! Enjoy your videos!
This video really helped me cause im getting y frist pair of point shoes tomorrow
Thank you so much for this! I'm getting pointe shoes in the summer, and I can't wait! Thanks again :)
her voice is so soothing
I get my shoes Saturday! So excited!
Congratulations on the 100K followers on RUclips. Keep your nice work! 🥳
Thank you so much! Can't wait to book my first pointe shoe appt with you! (I'm an adult ballet dancer
Yeah! A full length video again
I just got Demi pointe shoes yesterday, sewing is NOT FUN😂😂
Thank you so much for all the information 🤗💖
I love all these great tips. (I think this is the first time I've seen *not* to ask parents for help, and I find it hilarious!)
I always sew just ribbons until I've worn my shoes in class and then I add elastics as needed :) for my last pair I had a single elastic over the front of the shoe and a loop of thin elastic at the heel to thread the ribbons through (the heel was slipping) which I then changed to a loop of thick elastic which went round my ankle.
pair before that I had elastics in a cross over the front and the pair before that I didn't use elastics at all! so just know you don't necessarily need elastics😊
I literally do not, nor have I ever done ballet but I love this channel 😂
Hey!
Can you make a video to help dancers fit themselves in pointe shoes? In my city there's one place I can buy my pointe shoes and the Sellers don't know a lot about fitting shoes... So if you could give me some tips for the next time I need to buy them, I would be so greatful!
Also your videos are very helpful to me so thank you!! 💕✨🩰
If you are an adult, especially, make sure the fitting person listens to you, don't let them try to convince you to buy something that doesn't feel quite right to you because there are some fitters out there that want to put people in certain brands that are more expensive for instance. Had this experience myself. When you get re-fitted for a second or third pair, or later on when your needs change, just make sure you believe in your ability to listen to your body and don't let someone tell you a shoe that say, feels a bit too wide is actually your correct size. It also helps if you know the names of all the parts of the shoe, so you can immediately tell the fitter what part of the shoe isn't right as you try different ones and different sizes.
Watching in 2023, was not sure if I remembered correctly on sewing pointe. I stopped ballet in 2012 and on my last month was when I started en pointe. That was also the year I started college. I bought a pair of pointe shoes and ballet shoes to get back on ballet this year.
can you please do a video on how to tie the ribbons on pointe shoes? or you could do a fun one where you try to guess the brands of pointe shoes just by looking at someone wear them
CONGRATS ON 100KKKKK YASSS
My feet are super boney so finding the right kind of padding is hard as my feet are also wide and long but my heel is super narrow. My shoes tend to slip off my heels. My teacher recommended doing crisscross elastic but I am scared to mess them up. Also I would love a part two!!!
We want another video like this
I got my shoes yesterday so I’m watching all your videos lol
How long should your first pointe shoes last?
Will you please make a video reviewing/giving your honest opinion about La Pointe by Wear Moi pointe shoes? If it helps, I have super narrow feet and high arches.
My first pair of pointe shoes took four hours, no lie! It was so painful, since I am not very patient. My second pair took about four hours as well.
i started ballet in early september 2021 and am most likely going to be getting pointe shoes in the summer or fall☺️
Going on pointe in a months can’t wait!
thx! I'm starting point this year so ty
I miss ballet and pointe too much. Its been like 13 years since and I really want to get back into it again. But im a mom and don’t really have time
For anybody who wears gaynor Minden’s, I found a way to break them in. I have super flexy feet and couldn’t get other them because the shank wasn’t molding to my foot. I got the whole shoe wet with water and then did some releves and demi pointe walks. After those dried I took a hair dryer to it and molded the shank to my foot while I was in a forced arch and once the shank cooled down I bent it all the way to the ground. I know it seems crazy but it’s one of the ways I got the new European gaynors to work.