What You'll Learn
- Techniques for developing superior ankle strength and stability en pointe.
- How to execute precise piqué and tombé transitions by pushing from the back foot.
- Refining center promenades and passé movements for better balance.
- Correct foot placement and toe engagement inside the pointe shoe.
- Integrating barre alignment into fluid center-floor combinations.
About This Video
Take your pointe work to the next level with this comprehensive 40-minute training session from Broche Ballet. Led by instructor Julie, this class is meticulously designed to bridge the gap between stationary barre exercises and fluid center-floor combinations. The session is divided into two halves: 20 minutes of focused one-handed barre work and 20 minutes of dynamic center practice, ensuring a well-rounded approach to your technical development.
The first half of the class focuses on the mechanics of the foot and ankle. You will practice piqué and sous-sus movements with a specific emphasis on ankle strength. Julie guides you through exercises that require you to point the ankle immediately as you transition your weight.
This "up and over" action is crucial for maintaining stability en pointe. By learning to press your toes down firmly within your shoes, you will find a more secure connection to the floor, allowing for better control during every relevé. In the second half, the training moves away from the barre to challenge your balance and spatial awareness.
You will work on combinations featuring tombé, pas de bourrée, and passé. A key takeaway from this portion is the importance of the back foot; you will learn how to use it as a powerful motor to push into transitions. The class also covers the art of the promenade, teaching you how to take up space while maintaining a fast, precise tempo.
Julie explains that turns should feel natural, occurring as a result of proper alignment rather than forced effort. Throughout the lesson, the focus remains on maintaining proper body alignment and posture. By mastering these foundational elements, you can execute quick footwork combinations with greater ease.
Whether you are looking to strengthen your ankles for more demanding choreography or simply want to feel more centered, this class provides the technical tools necessary for success.