What You'll Learn
- Articulate through the demi-pointe by webbing the toes for a stable base
- Develop lateral ankle stability to favor a winged line over a sickle
- Isolate foot and ankle movements using a Theraband for resistance and feedback
- Engage the quadriceps to maintain proper alignment of the kneecaps and leg
- Improve calf flexibility and ankle range of motion through targeted stretches
About This Video
Stepping into your first pair of pointe shoes is a monumental milestone in any dancer's journey. However, the strength required to dance en pointe safely starts long before the ribbons are tied. At Broche Ballet, we believe that foundational stability is the key to both aesthetic beauty and injury prevention.
This 13-minute pre-pointe practice is dedicated to one of the most critical aspects of footwork: the technical distinction between winging and sickling. During this session, you will utilize a Theraband to create targeted resistance, allowing you to feel the engagement of the lateral muscles in the ankle. We focus heavily on the concept of webbing the toes, which creates a broad, stable base within the shoe.
By pushing through the ball of the foot into a strong demi-pointe, you build the necessary power to support your weight effectively. You will learn to isolate the movements of the foot, transitioning smoothly from a flexed position to a full pointe while maintaining an outward wing. This alignment is essential for a clean line and for ensuring that the ankle does not collapse or sickle inward, which can lead to chronic strain or acute injury.
Our instructor guides you through specialized ankle circles and foot articulation exercises in both parallel and turned-out positions. Beyond the feet, we emphasize the importance of the entire leg line, instructing you on how to engage the quadriceps to lift the kneecaps. This integrated approach ensures that your stability comes from a strong, cohesive kinetic chain.
Whether you are an intermediate student preparing for your first pointe assessment or an experienced dancer looking to refine your technique and prevent common technical faults, this resistance-based practice offers the feedback and strength training you need to excel. Join us at Broche Ballet to refine your artistry and build the resilient foundations required for beautiful, safe pointe work.
