>I love pointe shoes..the bound look of a dancer's foot...with tights and shiny satin. Wow.>I am a male dancer, and I also dance on pointe. It started about a year ago, when I was recovering from an ankle injury. I had lost strength in my foot postures for martial arts (my first love, I have to admit), and a fellow dancer (female) suggested that I try working en pointe. Sure enough, after I got used to the initial discomfort, it's helped my rehabilitation. My ankles are strong AND flexible, much more so than before. I actually LIKe pointe work...its a change..certainly different. Makes one realize the trouble women go through. :)>Feel free to write back...Aaron