Pointe Technique: Managing High Arches and Overcoming Pointe Panic

Dancing en pointe with high arches is often seen as a gift, but for many dancers, it presents a unique set of challenges—chiefly the feeling of being too far over the box. At Broche Ballet, we understand that this instability and the resulting pointe panic can hinder your progress, especially when transitioning from the barre to the center or preparing for pirouettes. This 30-minute instructional session is specifically designed for dancers who struggle with controlling their flexible insteps and maintaining a secure, upright position on their platform.

In this class, you will explore the essential relationship between your knee alignment and your pointe shoe box. For dancers with high arches, the tendency is often to let the weight tumble forward, leading to a lack of control and a breakdown in technique. We focus on muscularizing your pointe work by engaging the glutes and inner thighs to pull the body back into correct alignment without sacrificing the beautiful line of the foot. By creating opposition—pressing the toes down while pulling the knees together and up—you will find a new level of security during every relevé and sous-sus.

Beyond the physical technique, this session addresses the psychological aspect of ballet: pointe panic. This anxiety often strikes during turns, causing dancers to hold back and lose the momentum necessary for successful pirouettes. You will learn how to build confidence by committing fully to the movement and trusting your shoes. Whether you are working on a solid balance in first position or preparing for a double pirouette, understanding how to manage your specific foot shape is key to unlocking your potential. Join us to transform your pointe work from a source of anxiety into a display of strength and stability.