Pre Pointe Assessments

Specialist screenings to ensure dancers are safe and ready for pointe work.

PARTNERS IN PERFORMANCE

Trusted by clubs, coaches, and communities across Adelaide.

Why Pre-Pointe Assessments Matter

Starting pointe work is a major milestone for ballet dancers, but it comes with significant demands on strength, control, and technique. Our pre-pointe assessments identify whether you’re ready and provide a clear plan to build any areas that need improvement, reducing the risk of injury and setting you up for success.

What’s Involved in a Pre-Pointe Assessment?

During the assessment, we test foot and ankle strength, mobility, turnout, balance, posture, and core stability. We also review your dance technique, injury history, and overall control to ensure you meet the physical requirements for pointe work. Every dancer leaves with individual feedback and practical exercises to help prepare safely.

Support Beyond the Assessment

If you’re not quite ready, we’ll give you a tailored strengthening and technique plan to build what’s needed. For those cleared for pointe, we provide tips on shoe fitting, injury prevention, and ongoing conditioning to help you transition confidently and sustainably.

Your Pre Pointe Journey, Step by Step

Meet Your Pre-Pointe Readiness Expert

Physiotherapist

Tessa is a caring physiotherapist providing personalised pain management and movement support…

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Ready to move well and live strong? Schedule your appointment with us today.

OPENING HOURS

Monday 8am – 6pm
Tuesday 8am – 7pm
Wednesday 8am – 7pm
Thursday 9am – 7pm
Friday 8am – 6pm
Saturday 8am – 12 noon
Sunday Closed

WHERE TO FIND US

115 Jetty Road, Glenelg SA 5045

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Assessments are typically done around 11–13 years old, but readiness depends on strength, control, and experience rather than age alone.
We don’t recommend it -skipping an assessment increases the risk of injury and may delay your long-term pointe progress.
We’ll create a strengthening plan targeting specific areas so you can safely build up to pointe work. Re-assessments can track your progress.
Assessments usually take 45–60 minutes to thoroughly test strength, mobility, and technique while allowing time for feedback and questions.
Absolutely- We can collaborate with teachers to align our programs with your training and ensure a safe transition to pointe.

Tessa Walker

Physiotherapist

Tessa brings a calm, holistic approach to physiotherapy, shaped by years in private practice and a background in dance and ballet instruction. Her deep understanding of the physical demands placed on artistic athletes makes her an ideal physiotherapist for dancers, performers, and anyone seeking to improve movement and manage injuries.

Highly skilled in Pilates and GLA:D certified, Tessa works closely with clients to build personalised programs that support long-term results. She offers both one-on-one and group-based rehab sessions, focusing on building strength, control, and confidence through movement.

Tessa has a particular interest in hypermobility, especially among dancers and active individuals, and is passionate about helping clients understand their bodies and feel empowered through tailored treatment. Her warm, supportive nature and wide-ranging knowledge make her a trusted practitioner among clients of all ages.

Additional Qualifications:

  • APA Dry Needling Level 1
  • DMA Clinical Pilates A
  • The Foot and Ankle in Dance and Sport (Susan Mayes)
  • GLA:D (Osteoarthritis evidence-based practice)
  • The Dancing Hip (Susan Mayes)