What You'll Learn
- Master the articulation of the foot by performing slow rises that transition through demi-pointe to strengthen the arch.
- Improve alignment in sous-sus by focusing on the curve of the foot and centering weight over the first two toes.
- Develop control during transitions by practicing controlled roll-downs to build eccentric ankle strength.
- Enhance stability through piqué and pas de cheval drills that require precise weight transfer.
- Build core engagement and balance by practicing barre releases during relevé and full pointe holds.
About This Video
Elevate your ballet practice with this focused 28-minute instructional class from Broche Ballet, specifically designed to refine your foundational pointe technique. Whether you are a dancer newly en pointe or a seasoned student looking to revisit the basics, this session prioritizes the slow, deliberate movements necessary to build true intrinsic foot strength and ankle stability. The class begins at the barre, where the instructor guides you through a series of exercises centered on foot articulation.
You will focus on the crucial transition through demi-pointe, ensuring that every rise to the box is controlled and purposeful. This rolling through the shoe is the secret to developing the supple yet strong arches required for advanced work. We address common technical hurdles, such as alignment in sous-sus.
By focusing on the curve of the foot and maintaining weight over the big and second toes, you will learn to avoid the common pitfall of sickling, protecting your ankles and creating a cleaner line. As the class progresses, you will engage in piqué transitions, pas de cheval, and pas de bourrée drills. These sequences are designed to improve your stability and coordination while shifting weight.
You will also practice controlled roll-downs, where the goal is to keep the heels off the floor for as long as possible, building the eccentric strength needed for soft, silent landings. Safety and longevity are paramount at Broche Ballet. This session includes modifications for those with sensitivities, as well as stretches for the Achilles and calves to ensure a well-rounded practice.
Throughout the class, you will be encouraged to test your balance by releasing the barre during relevé and sous-sus holds. This not only builds confidence but also forces the core to engage, providing the necessary support for your legs and feet. By the end of this session, you will have a deeper understanding of how to articulate your feet within your pointe shoes, leading to more graceful and secure movements en pointe.
