What You'll Learn
- How to find the 'happy medium' between pointing and winging for better aesthetics and balance.
- Strengthening exercises for the specific muscles that control foot winging.
- Techniques to improve stability in the back foot during tendu and arabesque.
- How to properly wing the foot in échappé to prevent rolling and increase control.
About This Video
Winging the foot is one of the most misunderstood aspects of ballet technique, especially when it comes to pointe work. Many dancers struggle to "get over the box" simply because they lack the specific strength and awareness required to find a beautiful, stable wing. In this 10-minute focus session from Broche Ballet, Julie guides you through a series of targeted exercises designed to build the "winging" muscles, ensuring your line is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The class begins with an exploration of the relationship between pointing and winging. Rather than seeing these as opposing forces, you will learn to find a "happy medium" where the foot is fully stretched but slightly angled to create that classic professional line. This dichotomous relationship requires a deep understanding of how the foot interacts with the pointe shoe's box.
By finding the wing while pointing the toes, you create a broader base of stability, particularly in the back foot. Throughout the session, you will practice specific movements such as tendu back and arabesque. These exercises aren't just about height; they are about maintaining the integrity of the foot's shape even as the leg moves through space.
We also dive into échappé in fourth position, where the winging of the back foot is crucial for maintaining balance and preventing the ankle from rolling. Julie emphasizes the importance of the Achilles tendon and surrounding musculature in this process. You will learn how to release the tension in the point just enough to allow the wing to activate, a subtle adjustment that can transform your stability en pointe.
Whether you are struggling with your relevé or simply want to polish your line, this focused practice provides the tools you need to feel more confident and secure in your shoes. Join the Broche Ballet community and start refining your technique today.
