Beginner Pointe Cohort Week 13: Mastering Piqué Sous-sus

Welcome to week 13 of the Broche Ballet 16-week Beginner Pointe Cohort. As we progress into the final month of this structured program, we transition from foundational stability into more dynamic movements. This 30-minute class is designed to help you bridge the gap between static barre exercises and the fluidity required for center work, with a primary focus on the piqué sous-sus. Moving en pointe requires a unique blend of strength, bravery, and technical precision, and this session provides the guided practice needed to build those attributes safely.

The lesson begins with a comprehensive warm-up to prepare the feet and ankles for the box. We revisit essential movements such as plié, tendu, and dégagé, emphasizing that proper alignment and turnout must be maintained even as the complexity of the footwork increases. A key theme of this class is learning to trust your pointe shoes. The instructor guides you through exercises like pas de cheval and glissade, helping you establish a firm connection between your foot and the shank of the shoe.

The core of the lesson introduces the piqué sous-sus. Unlike a traditional relevé, the piqué requires a sharp, direct step onto a straight supporting leg. You will learn how to find your vertical axis instantly while maintaining a strong, lifted core. We also practice échappé and controlled relevés to further develop the intrinsic muscles of the toes. Throughout the session, the instructor emphasizes the importance of tempo and rhythm, ensuring that your movements are not just technically correct, but also musical. By focusing on precision and control rather than speed, you will develop the confidence to execute these steps with grace and stability. Join Broche Ballet for this essential step in your pointe journey.