What You'll Learn
- Techniques for articulating the foot to achieve a soft, controlled roll down from en pointe.
- Proper hip alignment and weight placement for soutenu and piqué transitions.
- How to execute a clean pas de bourrée with correct foot-to-floor contact and rhythm.
- Exercises to build the strength and confidence needed to transition to intermediate-level pointe work.
About This Video
Elevate your pointe work with this focused 23-minute barre and center practice at Broche Ballet. Designed specifically for dancers moving from a beginner to an intermediate level, this class emphasizes the fundamental mechanics that lead to effortless and graceful movement. One of the most sought-after skills in pointe technique is the ability to achieve a soft, controlled roll down.
In this session, we break down the articulation required to move through the shoe, ensuring you aren't just "falling" off your platform but are instead using every muscle in your foot to control the descent through the demi-pointe position. Throughout the class, we explore a series of exercises that bridge the gap between simple barre work and more complex center combinations. You will practice essential movements such as tendu, plié, and cloche, all while wearing your pointe shoes to build the necessary strength and stamina.
The instructor provides detailed guidance on how to use the floor—pushing through the box of the shoe to create a solid foundation for every step. This "push" is vital for developing the power and stability needed for more advanced movements later in your training. Special attention is given to transitional steps that define intermediate artistry.
You will work on the pas de bourrée, focusing on the precise rhythm and the importance of touching the floor as you move through the position to avoid a "hopping" look. We also delve into soutenu and piqué steps, teaching you how to align your center of gravity over your supporting leg to maintain balance and elegance. You will learn the importance of keeping the hips level; preventing the hip from lifting as you transition through a movement is key to professional-looking alignment.
Beyond the physical technique, this class encourages you to embrace the aesthetic of the dance. From learning how to step and walk with confidence to understanding how to present your feet beautifully, Broche Ballet helps you find the artist within the athlete. Whether you are practicing in your home studio or preparing for a live class, these exercises will help you develop the strength and confidence needed to master your pointe shoes.