What You'll Learn
- Master the unique taco pancake stretch to improve mid-foot flexibility.
- Develop deep awareness of your foot anatomy, bone structure, and muscle tone.
- Increase toe dexterity and mobility through targeted wiggle and separate exercises.
- Techniques to reduce foot stiffness and improve shoe fit for dancing.
About This Video
Welcome to Broche Ballet’s specialized Seated Pre-pointe class, a 14-minute session dedicated entirely to the foundation of every dancer: the feet. This class is designed to bridge the gap between general foot exercises and the specific demands of en pointe work. Our instructor guides you through a series of targeted movements aimed at increasing both flexibility and functional strength.
We begin by exploring the concept of foot awareness. Understanding your own foot’s anatomy—including bone structure, muscle tone, and toe shape—is crucial for everything from technical execution to finding the perfect fit in your ballet shoes. Throughout the class, we use specialized techniques to separate and pry open the tight structures of the mid-foot.
One of the highlights is the taco pancake stretch, a unique method where you fold the foot to create a shell shape before using your hands to smush and pry the bottom of the foot open. This action helps to loosen the fascia and muscles around the arch, providing immediate relief from stiffness. In addition to deep stretching, we focus on mobility through active wiggle and wriggle exercises for the toes.
These seemingly simple movements are essential for developing the dexterity needed to articulate through the floor. By learning to separate the toes and fold the metatarsals correctly, you build a more responsive and resilient foot. This class is suitable for all levels and requires no prior experience, making it an excellent starting point for beginners or a vital maintenance routine for advanced dancers.
At Broche Ballet, we believe that foot health is a continuous journey. These exercises can be performed anywhere—not just at the barre—allowing you to integrate foot mobilization into your daily routine. By making time for these stretches, you will notice a significant impact on your shoe fit, your relevé height, and your overall dancing performance.
