Beginner Pointe Class 9: Mastering the Scooping Sous-Sus and Fast Footwork

Welcome back to Class 9 of our comprehensive 16-week Beginner Pointe program here at Broche Ballet. In this session, we transition from foundational stability into more dynamic footwork, focusing on the speed and precision required for intermediate pointe work. If you have been following the series, you know that building strength is a marathon, not a sprint.

This class is designed to challenge your ankle stability while introducing more complex coordination. A major focus of today’s class is the 'scooping' sous-sus. Rather than simply springing up, we explore the articulated 'scoop' movement, where the heel tracks toward the midline, ensuring your shoes are fully supported by your arch.

This technique is vital for creating the aesthetic line of the leg while maintaining safety en pointe. We also delve deep into the pas de bourrée. You will learn to execute this movement with a controlled plié en pointe, focusing on the 'rolling' action of the feet as they descend and ascend.

This helps in developing the 'fast ankles' necessary for more advanced allegro steps later in your training. The class includes a rigorous three-part combination. This combo pushes your endurance and mental focus by combining the pas de bourrée with balance exercises and quick footwork drills.

We emphasize the flexing action of the ankles and toes, which is often overlooked but essential for power and grace. You will also work on tendu exercises to the back and specific stretches designed to alleviate tension after intense pointe sessions. At Broche Ballet, we believe that technique is the foundation of artistry.

By mastering these intricate movements now, you set yourself up for success in more complex choreography. Remember to listen to your body and ensure your pointe shoes are properly fitted before beginning. Let's get to the barre and start Class 9!