What You'll Learn
- How to execute a clean pas de bourrée while wearing pointe shoes.
- Techniques for proper foot shaping to avoid sickling and improve stability.
- The importance of the flexing action for steps like tombé.
- Exercises to strengthen the ankles and maintain alignment in sous-sous.
- Effective stretching routines to protect and lengthen the Achilles tendon.
About This Video
Welcome to week six of the Broche Ballet 16-week beginner pointe cohort. As we progress through this foundational program, this session focuses on one of the most essential movements in classical ballet: the pas de bourrée. Navigating this step en pointe requires a delicate balance of strength, coordination, and precise foot placement.
We delve deep into the mechanics of rolling through the feet, transitioning from a plié into a sous-sous, and maintaining consistent turnout throughout the transition. A significant portion of today's class is dedicated to foot shaping and the flexing action within the pointe shoe. For beginner dancers, understanding how to engage the toes without clawing is vital for both safety and aesthetics.
We practice the tombé with a specific flexing action to ensure you feel your toenails connecting with the top of the box, which helps create a beautiful line and prevents the foot from slipping inside the shoe. The instructor provides detailed feedback on keeping the big toe grounded while supporting the outer ankle to avoid common issues like sickling. In addition to the pas de bourrée, we work through a series of barre exercises designed to increase ankle stability and flexibility.
Proper alignment is emphasized throughout, ensuring that your weight is centered over the platform of the shoe. We also address the importance of the Achilles tendon; regular stretching is integrated into the lesson to prevent tightness and potential injury. By the end of this 31-minute practice, you will have a better grasp of how to articulate your feet within the shoes and how to execute transitional steps with grace and control.
Whether you are practicing at home or in a studio, this lesson provides the technical breakdown necessary to feel confident and secure on your toes.
