What You'll Learn
- How to improve foot articulation and ankle flexibility en pointe.
- Techniques for maintaining a strong arch shape and turnout in second position.
- Methods for reducing barre dependency to improve natural balance and core stability.
- The proper technique for rolling down from sous-sus to plié with control.
About This Video
Elevate your pointework with Broche Ballet’s intensive 'Fabulous 15' routine. This session is designed specifically for intermediate to advanced dancers who want to move beyond the basics and master the nuances of foot articulation and arch shape en pointe. Over 15 minutes of nonstop practice, the instructor guides you through a rigorous series of exercises that challenge your endurance while refining your technical form.
The class begins with a focus on articulation exercises, which are essential for loosening the feet and ankles to achieve a beautiful line. As you move through the warm-up, you will practice keeping your turnout and maintaining a centered balance, even as the complexity of the movements increases. A significant portion of the class is dedicated to mastering the arch shape in second position.
Working en pointe in a wide second position requires exceptional control of the intrinsic foot muscles and consistent rotation from the hips. You will work on executing clean tendus and échappés (often phonetically referred to as 'Asia pace'), focusing on the simultaneous engagement of your toes, hips, and core. The instructor emphasizes 'sternum down and hips together' to ensure your alignment remains professional and functional.
One of the highlights of this practice is the focus on rolling down from a sous-sus to a plié with grace and control. By resisting the urge to 'drop' out of positions, you build the eccentric strength necessary for more advanced center work. You will also practice various turns, including en dehors and en dedans, as well as pas de bourrée (the correct term for 'pot of berets') and petit allegro movements.
Throughout the class, you are encouraged to lessen your reliance on the barre, transitioning your stability from your hands to your core. This holistic approach ensures that every movement, from a simple plié to a complex turn, is executed with the precision and artistry expected of a seasoned dancer.
