What You'll Learn
- How to articulate through the pointe shoe for a clean, stable sous-sus
- The mechanics of executing a pas de bourrée while on pointe
- Proper cou-de-pied placement with the heel forward and toes back
- Techniques for maintaining balance when picking up to one foot
- Essential stretches for the calf and Achilles to support pointe safety
About This Video
Welcome to Class #4 of the Broche Ballet 16-week Beginner Pointe Program. This session is designed to bridge the gap between static exercises and fluid movement, specifically focusing on the mechanics of the sous-sus and the introduction of the pas de bourrée. As you progress in your pointe journey, understanding how to articulate through the shoe becomes paramount for both safety and aesthetic grace.
In this lesson, we dive deep into the technical nuances of the cou-de-pied. You will learn the importance of keeping the heel forward and toes away to ensure proper alignment. We also cover the transition to passé, emphasizing the need to tuck the toe when descending to maintain control and protect the joints.
These foundational movements are the building blocks of more complex center work, and mastering them at the barre is essential. A significant portion of the class is dedicated to developing the strength and flexibility required for sustained pointe work. We focus on exercises that encourage picking up to one foot while maintaining perfect balance.
Proper alignment in a demi-plié is reinforced to ensure every rise to pointe is supported by a strong foundation. We also include targeted calf and Achilles tendon stretches to help manage the increased physical demands on your lower legs. At Broche Ballet, we believe that technique is the key to longevity in dance.
This class provides the detailed feedback needed to help you feel supported as you navigate these new challenges. Whether you are working on your sous-sus or perfecting your pas de bourrée, this session emphasizes execution over speed, ensuring you build the right habits from the very beginning. Remember, pointe work should never be started without the explicit approval of a professional ballet teacher to ensure your feet and ankles are ready for the challenge.
