What You'll Learn
- The technical mechanics of executing a controlled roll down on a single leg.
- Advanced foot shaping techniques to improve your line and stability en pointe.
- How to combine movements like pas de cheval and relevé with proper alignment.
- Strategies for building ankle strength and flexibility using the barre for support.
About This Video
Welcome to Week 5 of the Broche Ballet 16-week Beginner Pointe program. As we progress through this cohort, we shift our focus toward one of the most critical transitions in pointe work: the single-leg roll down. Moving from the stability of two feet to the controlled descent of one leg requires significant ankle strength, precise foot shaping, and a deep understanding of your alignment. This class is designed to help you bridge that gap with confidence.
The lesson begins at the barre with a comprehensive review of foot placement. You will be guided through exercises that emphasize the 'point' within the shoe, ensuring your feet are active and engaged. We incorporate specific movements like the pas de cheval and dégagé to encourage quick footwork and articulation. These exercises are not just about speed; they are about developing the muscular memory needed to find your center while en pointe. You will also work on the su-su and relevé, focusing on rising with power and descending with resistance.
A major highlight of this session is the introduction of the single-leg roll down. The instructor breaks down the mechanics of the movement, emphasizing a controlled plié and a slow transition through the demi-pointe. This helps prevent 'dropping' out of the shoe, which can lead to injury. Throughout the combinations, we also address upper-body carriage, reminding dancers to keep their shoulders down and maintain steady breathing to support their core. By the end of this class, you will have a better grasp of how to shape your feet effectively and how to manage your weight distribution as you move through more complex combinations. Join us at the barre and take the next step in your pointe journey with Broche Ballet.