What You'll Learn
- Advanced techniques for spreading toes to maximize floor surface area and balance
- Specific exercises to strengthen the arches and intrinsic muscles of the foot
- Correct alignment for coupé and plié to prevent ankle rolling and injuries
- How to distribute weight evenly between the first and second toes for maximum stability
- Developing the control needed for slow, smooth descents from relevé
About This Video
Building a strong foundation is essential for every dancer, especially those preparing for the transition to dancing en pointe. This 15-minute practice session at Broche Ballet focuses specifically on the intricate muscles of the feet, ankles, and arches to enhance your stability and control. The class begins with a foundational review of proper foot placement in first position, ensuring that your weight is correctly distributed before moving into more challenging exercises.
Throughout the session, you will explore various movements designed to engage the intrinsic muscles of the foot. You will practice coupé movements and straight leg rises, focusing on the articulation of the foot from the heel through the toes. A key highlight of this class is the emphasis on toe spreading and pressure.
By learning to spread your toes wide and push down into the floor, you create a broader base of support, which is vital for maintaining balance in high relevé or when eventually wearing pointe shoes. The instructor guides you through plié sequences that prioritize alignment, specifically focusing on the relationship between the back heel and the calf. Maintaining this connection ensures that your turnout is functional and your ankles remain supported.
You will also learn the significance of the pinky toe in providing lateral stability, preventing 'rolling in' or pronation. This class emphasizes slow, smooth, and controlled movements. By resisting the floor as you lower your heels, you build the eccentric strength necessary for graceful landings and controlled transitions.
Whether you are a student working toward your first pair of pointe shoes or an experienced dancer looking to refine your footwork, these exercises offer a targeted approach to foot health and dance longevity. Join us at Broche Ballet to refine your technique and build the foot strength necessary for beautiful, powerful dancing.
