The most significant pre-pointe test!
Have you tried the airplane test, ?!
A 2022 review says the “Airplane Test” is the MOST SIGNIFICANT test to determine pointe readiness and predict future injury in dancers en pointe. 1 It’s also a good predictor of how much fun you’ll have, both in pointework and higher level exams.
The Airplane Test involves standing in parallel, with one leg extended to 90°, torso facing the floor, and arms out to the side like an airplane. From there, your supporting leg performs a squat while your fingertips reach towards the floor, before returning to your starting position.
Performed ballet style, it becomes arabesque en fondu.
This complex movement demonstrates:
Balance on one leg – using subtle adjustments to avoid falling over
Coordination – moving multiple body parts in harmony
Triple fold – hip, knee, and ankle bending together
Dynamic foot control – arches adjusting as you plie and stretch
Core stability – supporting the spine’s alignment while moving and breathing freely
Mastering these skills can bring your dancing to life, particularly during allegro and pointework when you’re asking your body to do lots of things at once.
It’s important to remember that repeating a test over and over is not the fastest way to improve.
Instead, you can use the airplane test to figure out which elements need work, and build them into your routine.
Try the Airplane Test for yourself! Which elements are the biggest challenge for you and how do you think they affect your dancing?
Hoping you fly through your week,
Natasha
1hough-coles, Kelly & Wyon, Matthew. (2022). Determining Pointe Readiness in Young Adolescent Female Dancers: A Systematic Review. Journal of Dance Medicine & Science. 26. 10.12678/1089-313X.121522b.