What You'll Learn
- How to activate the muscles under the arch to lift the heel without collapsing the pinky toe
- Techniques for improving toe spread and dexterity to create a wider, more stable base
- The role of the pinky toe in maintaining proper ankle alignment and preventing sickling
- Sensory exercises using the hands to improve the mind-body connection with the feet
- Proper engagement for demi-pointe and preparation for future pointe work
About This Video
Foot articulation is the foundation of every movement in ballet, yet many dancers struggle with the fine motor control required for true stability. In this Broche Ballet pre-pointe class, we dive deep into the mechanics of the foot, focusing specifically on toe spread and dexterity. Whether you are an adult beginner or an intermediate dancer preparing for pointe work, understanding how to engage your toes—especially the pinky toe—is crucial for maintaining proper alignment.
The class begins by exploring the often-overlooked role of the pinky toe in ankle stability. Many dancers find their ankles collapsing inward or outward during a relevé because they lack a solid foundation. Our instructor guides you through lift and lowers exercises designed to activate the muscles under the arch. By learning to lift the heel while keeping the pinky toe firmly pressed into the floor, you create a stable tripod effect that prevents the ankle from wobbling. This focus on the outer edge of the foot is a game-changer for dancers who struggle with sickling.
A unique aspect of this session is the use of hand-to-foot sensory feedback. By using your fingers to mimic the desired movement of your toes, you can better visualize and feel the neural connections required for toe spreading. Spreading the toes provides a wider base of support, which is essential for balance in first position and security during demi-pointe movements. Throughout the lesson, we emphasize the importance of alignment from the arch up through the ankle. You will practice pressing down through the pinky toe to help guide the ankle forward into a strong, vertical position. This engagement not only protects your joints but also builds the intrinsic foot strength necessary for the demands of pointe work. Join Broche Ballet for this focused practice and discover how small adjustments in your toes can lead to significant improvements in your overall dance technique and confidence.
