What You'll Learn
- Proper alignment of ankle bones and heels to avoid sickling and improve stability.
- Techniques for articulating through the toe joints and metatarsals during a tendu.
- How to maintain a high, centered heel during relevé and demi-pointe work.
- Strengthening exercises to develop independent toe joint movement and foot flexibility.
About This Video
Mastering your feet is a fundamental journey for any ballet dancer. In this Broche Ballet Deep Dive, we step away from fast-paced combinations to focus on the intricate mechanics of foot articulation, strength, and alignment. This class is designed for dancers who appreciate a slow, meditative approach to training, allowing for a profound connection between the mind and the body's smallest movements.
We begin at the barre, utilizing two hands for maximum stability. This support allows you to focus entirely on the placement of your heels and the alignment of your ankle bones. You will learn how to pull the ankles together in a parallel position, ensuring that your weight is distributed evenly across the metatarsals without pressing out onto the toes.
This foundational work is essential for preventing common injuries and building the necessary power for more advanced movements. As we progress, we explore the nuances of the plié and relevé. The instructor emphasizes the importance of centering the heel over the second toe to avoid sickling—a crucial correction for any student.
You will practice lifting the heels while keeping the ankles glued together, creating a strong, stable base. The session also covers the transition from a flexed position to a pointed one, teaching you how to reach long with the heel before returning to demi-pointe. A significant portion of this class is dedicated to articulation.
You will learn to peel the toes back to first position and slide the foot down until only the toenail touches the floor. This level of detail ensures that your tendu is not just a movement of the leg, but a precise articulation of the entire foot. By focusing on independent toe joint bending and maintaining a high heel shape that stays clear of the calf, you will develop the aesthetic and functional strength required for beautiful ballet technique.
Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your professional form, this deep dive provides the tools needed for exquisite footwork.
