What You'll Learn
- How to maintain a smooth, controlled descent from tendu to fondu
- Techniques for quick and precise weight shifts during tombé and piqué combinations
- Proper alignment and turnout maintenance while executing complex footwork en pointe
- Strategies for maintaining balance and steady tempo during nonstop pointework
About This Video
Building reliable pointe strength is a cornerstone of classical dance, requiring both endurance and meticulous attention to detail. This 14-minute intensive session from Broche Ballet, part of our 'Fabulous 15' series, is designed to challenge your control and precision through nonstop pointework. By focusing on fundamental movements like the fondu, tombé, and piqué, you will develop the muscular memory needed for more advanced choreography and center work.
The class begins by emphasizing the connection between the floor and the shoe. You will work through tendu and tombé combinations that prioritize a smooth roll-down from relevé or demi-pointe to a controlled fondu. The 'melting' quality of the fondu is essential for shock absorption and preparing the legs for powerful jumps and stable landings.
We focus on keeping the working leg still and avoiding any swinging motions to ensure that the power comes directly from the core and the standing leg’s turnout. As we progress into piqué and pas de bourrée exercises, the tempo increases. These movements require quick weight distribution and a sharp, precise strike onto the platform of the pointe shoe.
Throughout these combinations, the instructor guides you on maintaining proper alignment, ensuring your weight is centered over your toes without 'knuckling' or leaning back. You will also practice holding a clean passé or su-su position to test your balance and verticality. Beyond just the physical exertion, this class teaches you how to use your breath to manage stamina during a nonstop block of training.
By the end of the session, you will have worked on flexibility, foot articulation, and the mental focus required for sustained pointework. To finish, we incorporate a series of stretches for the ankles and calves to ensure proper recovery and long-term foot health. Join Broche Ballet for this focused workout and take your en pointe technique to the next level.
