Week 9: Mastering Control and Alignment in Beginner Pointe

Welcome back to the Broche Ballet Beginner Pointe Cohort. As we enter Week 9 of this 16-week journey, our focus shifts toward the refinement of foundational strength and the introduction of more articulate footwork. This session is designed to bridge the gap between basic stability and the fluid movement required for center work. We begin at the barre, where the instructor emphasizes the vital importance of proper foot placement and alignment. A strong, controlled plié is the engine for all pointe work; here, we focus on keeping the heels grounded during the demi-plié and ensuring weight is evenly distributed to protect the joints and enhance balance.

Throughout the class, we explore technical exercises including tendus, dégagés, and ronds de jambe, specifically tailored for the unique demands of dancing en pointe. A significant portion of today’s practice is dedicated to the pas de cheval and temps lié. These movements require a high degree of core engagement and turnout to execute correctly without losing the line of the leg or the stability of the ankle. We also delve into the artistry of ballet through port de bras. You will learn how to use your arms to frame the body and convey expression without sacrificing the structural integrity needed to remain en pointe.

By focusing on the intrinsic muscles of the arch and the articulation of the toes, this class builds the specific power necessary for advanced movements like fouettés and complex transitions. We conclude with a final dance routine that integrates these technical elements into a cohesive, expressive sequence. Remember that pointe work is a rigorous discipline; always ensure you have the approval of a professional ballet teacher before beginning these exercises. Stay focused on your breathing and alignment as you continue to progress through the Broche Ballet curriculum.