Beginner Pointe: Mastering Relevé Cou-de-Pied and Foot Shaping

Welcome back to the Broche Ballet Summer Cohort! In this tenth session of our sixteen-part beginner pointe series, we transition from foundational stability to more complex movement patterns. This class focuses heavily on the mechanics of relevé cou-de-pied and the sophisticated art of shaping your pointe shoes to achieve a professional, aesthetic line.

A significant portion of today’s lesson is dedicated to the relationship between the foot and the shoe. You will learn that simply pointing your toes is not enough for high-level pointe work; you must learn to shape the shoe by doming the knuckles and pulling the foot in. This visualization helps engage the intrinsic muscles of the feet, ensuring that the tibialis posterior and ankles remain firm and supportive.

We discuss how this shaping action creates a more secure and beautiful line compared to a standard point. We will practice various combinations including plié, retiré, and développé. As we move into the adagio section, the focus shifts to transitions and maintaining a strong center of gravity.

You will learn how to maintain stability during a sous-sus and how to navigate the subtle weight shifts required for a clean cou-de-pied. By emphasizing the crisscrossing of heels and deep pliés en pointe, you will develop the necessary strength to prevent sickling and ensure proper alignment. Repetition is the key to muscle memory.

Throughout this class, we encourage you to focus on the small details—the tuck of the heel into the calf and the firmness of the ankle. Whether you are practicing at home or in a studio, these exercises are designed to build the specialized strength required for adult dancers en pointe. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine your technique and help you dance with confidence and grace.