What You'll Learn
- Improve foot articulation and arch strength through controlled transitions between demi-pointe and full pointe.
- Master the 'pulling underneath' sensation during pas de bourrée and piqué movements for better alignment.
- Develop dynamic power in piqué ballonnée by treating the step as a jump to find verticality.
- Practice stability and core control through sustained balances in passé and développé extensions.
- Build lower body endurance and explosive strength through repetitive échappé sequences.
About This Video
Transitioning from beginner to intermediate pointework requires a delicate balance of strength, precision, and confidence. This 20-minute session from Broche Ballet focuses on the essential mechanics needed to move fluidly in your pointe shoes. We begin at the barre, focusing on meticulous foot articulation. By working through demi-pointe and stretching the arches, you will develop the necessary control to execute clean relevé sequences in first and fifth positions. Stability is the foundation of all ballet technique, and this class emphasizes core control during cambré movements and sustained balances.
You will practice shifting your weight efficiently through complex patterns like sous-sus with passé changes and fondu into pas de bourrée. A key highlight of this tutorial is the piqué ballonnée, where the instructor guides you to find a 'jumping' quality. Instead of simply climbing onto the shoe, you will learn to catch yourself at the top of the movement, fostering a sense of lightness and verticality. This 'pulling underneath' sensation is vital for maintaining proper alignment over the platform of the shoe during dynamic transitions.
As we progress into extensions, the focus remains on core engagement. Whether practicing développé devant, à la seconde, or derrière, you will learn to use your center to maintain alignment and height. These exercises are crucial for dancers looking to find balance both with and without the support of the barre. To round out the session, a series of repetitive échappé sequences in second position will help build the lower body stamina and explosive strength required for center work. By the end of this class, you will have a deeper understanding of how to manage your weight placement and transitions en pointe, helping you feel more secure and expressive in your dancing.
