09/16/2026
❌ Myth: "The higher your relevé, the better your balance."
Not necessarily.
One of the biggest misconceptions in ballet is that every dancer should push to the highest possible demi-pointe. While some dancers naturally achieve a very high relevé, that isn't what creates great balance.
Balance comes from keeping your body stacked over your base of support.
On demi-pointe, your weight should stay centered over the ball of your foot, with your toes long and relaxed.
The intrinsic muscles of the foot help stabilize you, but they shouldn't become the primary structure supporting your weight because you've shifted too far onto your toes.
When dancers force themselves higher than their anatomy allows, they often:
✔️ Grip or claw their toes
✔️ Shift their weight too far forward
✔️ Create unnecessary tension
✔️ Feel less stable instead of more balanced
The height of your demi-pointe is influenced by your individual anatomy, including your foot shape, arch structure, ankle mobility, and strength. A dancer with a lower natural demi-pointe may already be at their strongest and most balanced position.
The goal isn't to have the highest relevé in the room.
The goal is to find your highest controlled relevé where your alignment stays centered, your toes remain relaxed, and your balance is efficient.
If you're an adult or senior ballet dancer struggling with balance, relevés, or foot strength, I'd love to help. I offer private lessons in Peoria, Arizona, as well as online coaching for dancers worldwide.
Schedule a free consultation through the link in my bio, and let's build stronger, more confident technique based on your body, not someone else's.
www.veronicakballet.com
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