What You'll Learn
- Techniques to properly roll through the foot to get over the box
- How to maintain correct heel alignment and weight distribution on the big toe
- Strengthening exercises using pliés and tendus to improve foot flexibility
- Strategies for balancing and maintaining turnout while en pointe
About This Video
Achieving the correct line en pointe is a significant milestone for any dancer. This 10-minute specialized class with Broche Ballet focuses specifically on "getting over the box"—a crucial technique for both aesthetic alignment and physical safety. Whether you are a beginner just starting your journey or an experienced dancer looking to refine your footwork, these targeted exercises improve the flexibility and strength needed to move past the platform of the shoe.
The session begins with a parallel crisscross stretch, designed to warm up the metatarsals and ankles. Instructor Julie guides you through a series of pliés and rolls to the box, emphasizing the critical transition from demi-plié to full pointe. Throughout the video, you will learn how to distribute your weight correctly, specifically focusing on pressing through the big toe to ensure stability and prevent the common pitfall of sickling.
Proper alignment is at the core of this lesson. You will practice pressing over the box while keeping your heels pressing forward, a technique that enhances the aesthetic line of the leg while protecting the ankle joints. The class also incorporates tendus to the side, allowing you to lean over the box and push back to a closed position.
This specific movement helps in strengthening the intrinsic muscles of the feet that are often neglected. By focusing on the stretch up and down motion, you will develop the control necessary for smooth relevés and graceful transitions. Julie’s expert instruction helps you find your center of balance while maintaining consistent turnout from the hips.
This short but intensive session is designed to be integrated into your daily barre routine or used as a targeted warm-up before a full ballet class. At Broche Ballet, we believe in high-quality, accessible instruction that empowers you to reach your technical goals. Refine your foot articulation and master your pointe shoes with this focused tutorial.
