What You'll Learn
- Effective foot and ankle warm-ups to prepare for intense dance sessions.
- Proper alignment and the "heel-down-and-out" technique for ankle stability.
- Mechanics for maintaining a high demi-pointe during tendu and cou-de-pied.
- How to reach and lengthen the toes to avoid weight-bearing pressure.
- Balance strategies using active floor pressure to create vertical lift.
About This Video
Building a solid foundation is the most critical step for any dancer dreaming of dancing en pointe. At Broche Ballet, we believe that strength starts from the floor up. This pre-pointe class provides a fun and well-rounded flow designed to develop the specific muscles needed for a high demi-pointe and stable ankles.
Whether you are an absolute beginner or looking to refine your technique, this session offers valuable insights into the mechanics of the foot. The lesson begins with a dedicated warm-up for the feet and ankles. Warming up is essential, especially if you have a demanding week of dance ahead.
You will work through tendu exercises that focus on stretching and lengthening the toes while maintaining proper alignment. A major technical focus of this class is the "heel-out-and-down" concept, which helps create a beautiful and strong ankle line. The instructor provides clear corrections to ensure that your weight is distributed correctly, preventing common mistakes like "smooshing" the toes.
One of the highlights of this practice is the work on cou-de-pied. Understanding how to bend and straighten the leg in the back can be challenging, but this class breaks it down simply. By bending the leg first to find the position, you can better understand the mechanics of flipping the toes under while keeping the heel high.
This attention to detail is what separates a good dancer from a great one. You will also practice transitions back to demi-pointe, ensuring the heel stays elevated throughout the movement. Finally, the class covers essential balance and posture exercises.
You will learn that balance comes from actively pushing your feet into the floor to create an upward lift. By treating both feet as a synchronized unit, you will find more stability in your plié and other standing positions. Join Broche Ballet and take the next step in your dance education with this comprehensive pre-pointe flow.
