Pointe Technique: Mastering Ankle Manipulation & Control

In this comprehensive Broche Ballet session, join instructor Julie for a deep dive into the nuances of pointe technique. This 30-minute class is divided into a rigorous 20-minute barre section followed by 10 minutes of center work, all centered around the vital concept of ankle manipulation. Many dancers struggle with the transition to pointe work because they allow the stiffness of the shoe to dictate their movement.

This class aims to flip that dynamic. By focusing on the manipulation of the ankle, you will learn how to articulate through the shoe, using your toes and arch to command your placement. We begin at the barre with essential exercises like plié, tendu, and chassé.

Julie guides you through scooping into relevé, ensuring that every rise is controlled and intentional. We also work on the precision of passé and the stability of sous-sus, emphasizing that the knees should bend as a byproduct of active ankle movement, not as the primary driver. The scooping action is particularly emphasized; it is the secret to a smooth transition to full pointe, avoiding the pop that can lead to instability.

As we move to the center, the focus shifts to maintaining calmness and commitment. You will practice movements such as échappé and bourrée, learning to bring the arms down gracefully while maintaining energy in the feet. The goal is to develop fast, reactive ankle movements that add dynamics and energy to your dancing.

Throughout the lesson, Julie reminds us to keep our shoulders down and breathe, ensuring that physical effort does not translate into upper-body tension. Whether you are working on your stability in retiré or the fluidity of your pas de chat, this class provides the technical breakdown necessary for advanced pointe work. You will walk away with a better understanding of how to shape your shoes and use your feet as powerful instruments of expression.