What You'll Learn
- How to relax the ankle joint to achieve a deeper and more fluid demi-plié.
- Techniques for maintaining consistent heel height to eliminate 'wiggly' ankles during relevé.
- Exercises to enhance proprioception for better balance and spatial awareness in the feet.
- Proper execution of toe push-ups to build strength without compensating with the hips.
- The art of lengthening and spreading the feet into the floor for maximum stability.
About This Video
Strong, articulate feet are the foundational requirement for every classical dancer, whether you are preparing for pointe work or refining your technique on flat. In this specialized Broche Ballet training session, we dive deep into the micro-mechanics of the foot and ankle. The class is designed to bridge the gap between basic movements and the high-level control needed for advanced ballet repertoire.
We begin by addressing the importance of relaxing the ankle joint. Many dancers tend to grip in their ankles, which limits the depth of their demi-plié. You will learn to visualize your feet getting longer and spreading out into the floor to achieve a deeper, more functional bend. This grounding technique is essential for creating stability and power in your jumps and transitions.
A significant portion of the class is dedicated to ankle stability and proprioception. For dancers who struggle with 'wiggly ankles,' we focus on maintaining a precise and consistent heel height during plié relevé movements. By heightening your proprioception—the body's internal sense of its position—you will gain the ability to maintain balance and control even during the most challenging sequences at the barre.
Furthermore, we explore technical nuances such as toe push-ups, emphasizing the need to push from the toes rather than the hips. We also practice keeping the heels at the exact same height while bending and straightening the knees, a skill that ensures a seamless and stable technique. By incorporating these focused plié relevé movements into your regular routine, you will see a marked improvement in your overall balance, control, and performance quality.
