What You'll Learn
- How to shift weight onto a single leg while maintaining balance and core engagement.
- The proper technique for pas de bourrée and cou-de-pied positions en pointe.
- Essential shoe preparation techniques, including how to shape the shank for your foot.
- Methods for keeping the foot 'hard' and stable when transitioning onto the platform.
- Strategies for foot care and injury prevention through proper padding and alignment.
About This Video
Welcome to the fifth installment of our comprehensive 16-week Beginner Pointe Program here at Broche Ballet. In this session, we dive deep into one of the most pivotal milestones in a dancer’s journey: transitioning from the stability of two feet to the precision of a single leg en pointe. This class is designed to help you build the necessary strength and confidence to move fluidly through your pointe shoes while maintaining impeccable form.
Throughout the lesson, our instructors guide you through a series of exercises focused on weight distribution and stability. We begin at the barre, refining your demi-plié and sous-sus to ensure your foundation is rock solid. As we progress into more complex movements, you will explore the mechanics of shifting weight through temps lié and mastering the cou-de-pied and coupé positions.
Understanding how to keep the foot 'hard' in the air before stepping onto the platform is crucial for avoiding wobbling and ensuring a secure landing. A significant portion of Class #5 is dedicated to the pas de bourrée. We break down the movement into precise, manageable steps, emphasizing the importance of quick footwork and proper placement.
You will also practice simulated pas de bourrée movements to help your brain and body adapt to the unique sensations of pointe work. We touch upon the importance of turnout, explaining how it serves as the primary anchor for your balance and posture. Beyond the physical steps, we prioritize dancer wellness and equipment management.
You will learn the art of preparing your shoes—specifically how to shape the shank to support your unique arch—and the best practices for foot care, including padding techniques to prevent discomfort. By the end of this session, you will have a better understanding of how to maintain a strong core and aligned pelvis, even during challenging petit allegro sequences. Whether you are practicing at home or in the studio, this class provides the technical corrections needed to elevate your ballet practice safely and effectively.
