What You'll Learn
- Essential stretches for the arch and top of the foot to improve flexibility and line.
- Correct alignment techniques for demi-plié to support ankle stability and safety.
- How to use turnout to effectively target and stretch the calf muscles.
- Weight-shifting exercises that build toe strength and articulation.
- Methods for adjusting stretch intensity to prevent injury and manage discomfort.
About This Video
Starting your journey toward dancing en pointe is an exciting milestone in any dancer's life. At Broche Ballet, we believe that a strong foundation is the key to success and safety. This Pre-Pointe for Strength class is specifically designed to prepare your feet, ankles, and calves for the demands of pointe work through careful conditioning and technique.
During this session, we dive deep into the mechanics of the foot. You will begin with a thorough warm-up, utilizing demi-plié movements to activate the lower legs and prepare the joints. We focus on the quality of the plié to ensure your alignment is correct before moving into more intensive footwork.
Proper alignment is crucial for any dancer; our instructor guides you through exercises that emphasize the relationship between the hips, knees, and ankles to prevent injury. A significant portion of the class is dedicated to stretching both the top of the foot and the underside of the arch. By performing controlled stretches for the calves and the arches, you develop the flexibility needed for a beautiful line while maintaining the strength necessary for stability en pointe.
We also explore tendu and dégagé movements to sharpen your articulation and control. One unique aspect of this practice is the focus on turnout and its impact on your stretches. You will learn how to adjust your position to target the outside of the calf and how to shift your weight side-to-side without compromising your posture.
The instructor provides cues on maintaining a vertical spine—ensuring you do not shift your shoulders or lean—while keeping your weight heavy through your toes and demi-pointe. Whether you are a total beginner looking to understand ballet basics or a student preparing for your first pair of pointe shoes, this class offers the essential tools to build a resilient and capable body for dance.
