What You'll Learn
- How to use your toes as a lever to manipulate the shoe's box for better control.
- Strengthening the wing range to maintain stability and prevent sickling.
- Essential ankle flexibility exercises to achieve a deeper and more functional demi-plié.
- The 'separation of tasks' technique: using knees for lift and toes for push.
- Correct placement of the heel and toes to find the front corner of the platform.
About This Video
Mastering the transition from the floor to the platform is a pivotal milestone for any dancer training en pointe. At Broche Ballet, we understand that getting 'over the box' requires a delicate balance of ankle flexibility, intrinsic foot strength, and precise toe control. This focused class is designed to help you bridge the gap between your demi-pointe and full pointe work by targeting the specific mechanics needed to manipulate your pointe shoes effectively.
The lesson begins by addressing the importance of ankle flexibility. Without a sufficient range of motion in the ankle joint, achieving a vertical line over the platform becomes difficult, often leading to a 'sitting back' position in the shoes. Through targeted stretches and demi-plié work, you will learn how to deepen your range while maintaining proper alignment.
One of the core concepts covered in this tutorial is the use of the toes as a lever. Instead of simply lifting the foot, Julie teaches you how to use your toes to push against the floor, effectively manipulating the box of the shoe. This toe strength is crucial for controlling the shoe rather than letting the shoe control you.
By focusing on keeping the toes long and reaching—especially important for dancers with shorter toes—you can create a more stable base and a more beautiful line. ' This lateral stability prevents the foot from wobbling and ensures that you are standing directly on the center of the platform. We will explore exercises like tendu side with a lift to engage these stabilization muscles.
You will also learn the 'separation of tasks' within the body: understanding that the knees are responsible for the lift while the toes are responsible for the push. Whether you are struggling to find your center or simply want to improve your foot articulation, these exercises provide the foundation for stronger, more confident pointe work.
