What You'll Learn
- Proper foot articulation in first position and tendu to build strength
- Techniques for weight shifting and maintaining balance en pointe
- How to execute clean sous-sous, coude-à-pied, and coupé change movements
- Strategic calf stretches and warm-ups to prevent injury and manage pain
- Methods for engaging the abdominals to support posture and control
About This Video
Welcome to Class #5 of the Broche Ballet 2025 Cohort, specifically designed for dancers beginning their journey en pointe. This 40-minute practice session focuses on the fundamental mechanics required to dance safely and gracefully in pointe shoes. Our instructor guides you through a comprehensive series of exercises that prioritize technical precision over complexity, ensuring a solid foundation for your ballet training.
The class begins with a dedicated warm-up, emphasizing foot and ankle articulation to prepare the small muscles of the feet for the demands of pointe work. Throughout the session, you will perform essential movements such as tendu, plié, and relevé at the barre. A significant portion of this lesson is dedicated to mastering weight shifting and finding your center of balance.
You will practice steps like sous-sous, coude-à-pied, and coupé change, with the instructor providing detailed feedback on how to maintain proper posture and engage your abdominals. One of the unique aspects of this class is the focus on how to properly stretch the foot forward to get the back of the box off the ground, a crucial skill for achieving a full line en pointe. Additionally, the instructor provides valuable tips on managing the physical sensations of wearing pointe shoes and how to work through single-leg exercises with control.
We conclude the session with specific calf stretches and a cool-down routine to ensure recovery and flexibility. Whether you are a total beginner or a dancer looking to refine your basic technique, this class offers the structured guidance necessary to progress confidently in your pointe shoes. Remember, safety is paramount at Broche Ballet; please ensure you have received professional approval before beginning any pointe work exercises.
