En pointe (pointe) is a form of Ballet presented on the tips of the toes, made possible by specialized pointe shoes.
There are different varieties of ballet en pointe, but for the most part they focus on grace and specific technique. Both men and women are capable of learning to dance en pointe, but it is commonly done only by women.
There are different styles for pointe shoes, also commonly referred to as toe shoes or blocked shoes, and different dancers find that one style or another may fit better.
Dancers must have sufficient strength in the feet, ankle, leg, knee, and abdomen, as well as strong technical skills, before beginning pointe work.
