Basic Training
Whether you are a dance teacher, a physical therapist, shoe room supervisor, or a dancer in training, ThePointeShop’s Basic Training can help you understand ballet’s most important tool — pointe shoes.
Self-paced 12 weekly modules 3-month access
Course Overview
The Progressive Pointe Method Basic Training is a self-paced course offered exclusively in cooperation with DanseMedica. You’ll learn core concepts that connect fit, function, and safety for dancers.
- Pointe shoe models and how they differ
- Basic foot anatomy relevant to pointe work
- Applying knowledge to injury prevention
- How to communicate effectively with a pointe shoe fitter
The course includes 12 weekly modules and provides 3 months of access to the DanseMedica site and its features.
What You’ll Walk Away With
By the end of the program, you’ll have the tools to identify a dancer’s needs and speak the fitter’s language—so your dancer (or you) has the best experience en pointe possible.
- Clarity on fit and function
- Confidence discussing models, shanks, boxes, and lasts
- Safety-first mindset for training and rehearsals
- A shared vocabulary for faster, happier fittings
Applications Are Now Open!
Our next class begins January 16, 2026.
Application Deadline October 15, 2025.
Course Fee: $375
After you apply, we’ll follow up with the DanseMedica Team and you will be contacted by November 15th, if you will be moving on in the application process.
The Basic Training level is solely for educational purposes and will not provide the license to use our trademark, receive a certification or be listed on the website as a preferred fitter. Nor will it include ongoing support, membership or continual education.
After you have completed the Basic Training course, if you would like to apply to move forward to the certification program you are welcome to. Because the certification is hands on training, there are limited slots. Your acceptance into the certification continuation is not guaranteed. Those who wish to continue to the certification level must complete an in person exam during our annual pointe shoe fitting intensive and their score along with their application responses and their participation in the basic training will be considered together to determine acceptance to the program.
