Improving Demi-Pointe Height through Active Toe Engagement

Achieving a beautiful, high demi-pointe is a hallmark of strong ballet technique. At Broche Ballet, we believe that foot articulation starts with the toes. This 12-minute technical practice session is designed specifically to help you improve your demi-pointe height through intentional toe activation and intrinsic foot strengthening.

Instead of relying solely on leg power, you will learn how to use the bottoms of your toes to 'pry' the ball of the foot away from the floor, creating a more stable and elevated 'three-quarter point' position. This height is crucial for the aesthetic lines of ballet and the functional stability required for advanced center work. ' Doming is a critical technique where you pull the floor toward your heel without curling your toes, directly engaging the small muscles within the arch.

By strengthening these intrinsic muscles, you build the necessary support system for high relevés and more controlled landings. The instructor also guides you through circling the ball of the foot to help you find your 'sweet spot'—the optimal weight distribution over the second toe mound. This alignment is essential for preventing sickling, protecting the ankle, and ensuring safety during one-legged balances.

Throughout the drill, the focus remains on maintaining constant pressure through the bottoms of the toes. You will learn to pre-activate these muscles before you even begin your rise into a relevé, ensuring your foot is fully supported from the moment your heel leaves the floor. These concepts are not only vital for soft shoe work but serve as the perfect preparation for dancers transitioning to pointe shoes.

By mastering the articulation of the foot in movements like tendu, you will find greater height in your jumps and more security in your pirouettes. The session concludes with necessary calf stretches and foot releases to ensure recovery and flexibility, making this a comprehensive addition to your daily ballet training.