What You'll Learn
- How to maintain straight, 'happy' knees while pushing over the box
- Proper alignment and shoulder placement during difficult transitions
- Using sous-sus and passé to transition toward intermediate combinations
- Techniques for digging into the floor while pulling up for smooth action
- Refining the mechanics of the échappé and assemblé en avant en pointe
About This Video
Elevate your ballet practice with this comprehensive guide to pointe basics at Broche Ballet. Transitioning from beginner to intermediate pointework requires more than just physical strength; it demands a deep understanding of alignment and the mechanics of the pointe shoe. In this 19-minute class, we focus on refining your technique to build the confidence necessary for more advanced combinations.
A primary focus of this session is achieving what we call the 'happy knee' position. You will learn how to maintain straight legs while pushing over the box, particularly during échappé and assemblé en avant sequences. Many dancers struggle with bending the knees prematurely when attempting to reach full pointe; our instructor guides you through specific exercises designed to keep the knees and feet fully stretched, ensuring you are riding correctly on the box of the shoe rather than letting the shoe's resistance push you back.
The class structure moves through essential barre work and center floor movements, emphasizing proper footwork and turnout. You will practice digging your feet into the ground to create a stable base while simultaneously pulling up away from the floor to achieve a light, fluid movement. We will also explore the use of sous-sus and passé as alternatives to standard relevé in certain combinations to challenge your balance and control.
Throughout the lesson, you will receive cues on maintaining open shoulders and a long neck, preventing the common mistake of collapsing the torso during difficult transitions. By focusing on these fundamental basics, you establish the muscle memory needed for effortless execution. Whether you are working on your tombé or refining your échappé, this class provides the technical corrections needed to move with grace and precision. Join Broche Ballet and transform your pointework from tentative to confident.
