Pointe Basics for Confidence and Control

Transitioning to pointe work is a significant milestone in any dancer's journey, requiring a renewed focus on the fundamental principles of ballet. In this specialized class from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the foundations necessary for developing true confidence and control. Whether you are a beginner en pointe or an intermediate dancer looking to clean up your technique, this session offers a comprehensive look at the mechanics of dancing on the tips of your toes.

The lesson is structured to build strength progressively, starting with 20 minutes of focused barre work. We begin with a thorough review of proper alignment and turnout, which are the cornerstones of safe pointe work. You will move through essential exercises like tendu, plié, and relevé, paying close attention to how your weight is distributed over the box of the shoe.

A recurring theme in this class is the role of the upper back. The instructor demonstrates how a strong, stable upper back acts as an anchor for your balance. You will learn how to move your arms gracefully through the positions without throwing your upper body or losing your center.

In the second half of the class, we move to the center for 10 minutes of practice. Here, the challenge increases as we remove the support of the barre. We practice transitions such as tombé into piqué arabesque, focusing on the precision of the strike and the stability of the standing leg.

You will also work on passé and sous-sus, learning how to find your sweet spot of balance quickly and efficiently. The session also covers the quick feet of bourrée, helping you achieve that ethereal, floating quality synonymous with classical ballet. By emphasizing control over speed, this Broche Ballet class ensures that every movement is intentional and technically sound.

Join us to strengthen your core, stabilize your ankles, and elevate your pointe technique.