What You'll Learn
- Correct ankle alignment over the big toe to avoid sickling and maintain stability
- Specific ankle stretches to improve your range of motion for en pointe work
- Technique for getting fully over the box in relevés and su-sous
- A strengthening sequence combining plié, relevé, and tendu to build foot control
- How to execute a pas de cheval while maintaining proper heel placement
About This Video
Welcome to Class #3 of our comprehensive 16-week Beginner Pointe Program at Broche Ballet. In this session, we dive deep into one of the most critical aspects of pointe work: ankle placement and alignment. Understanding how to properly engage the ankle is essential for maintaining balance and preventing injury as you transition to dancing en pointe.
The focus of this class is achieving a precise position where the heels are pushed forward and up. Many beginners struggle with rolling out toward the pinky toe, but our instructor guides you through exercises designed to keep your weight centered over the big toe. This alignment is vital for getting over the box of your pointe shoes, ensuring you are supported by the shoe structure rather than straining your ligaments.
Throughout the 26-minute lesson, we work through a series of exercises at the barre. You will practice relevés and pliés with a specific focus on turnout and footwork. We also introduce a key strengthening combination: a plié followed by a relevé, then a tendu and a close.
This sequence builds the necessary calf and intrinsic foot muscle strength required for stable pointe technique. In addition to strengthening, we cover essential ankle stretches to help you achieve the desired line. We also practice movements like the pas de cheval and su-sous to reinforce proper tracking of the ankle.
By the end of this class, you will have a better tactile awareness of where your heels should be in relation to your toes. Consistency is key in this 16-week journey. By focusing on these technical details early on, you lay the foundation for a beautiful and safe pointe practice.
Remember, pointe work should never be rushed. Listen to the detailed corrections provided in this video to ensure your form remains impeccable. Join us as we take the next step in your ballet journey.
