What You'll Learn
- Technique for articulating through demi-pointe to full pointe with resistance.
- Exercises to isolate the big toe and strengthen the middle toes for alignment.
- Strategies for improving ankle stability through controlled sickling and winging.
- Manual toe stretches to enhance overall foot flexibility and range of motion.
About This Video
Preparing for pointe work is a milestone in any dancer’s journey, requiring significant dedication to foot strength and ankle stability. This 15-minute pre-pointe practice from Broche Ballet is designed to help you build the necessary foundation using targeted resistance band exercises. Whether you are a beginner looking to understand foot mechanics or an intermediate dancer refining your technique, this session offers essential tools for progress.
The core of this practice focuses on the articulation of the foot. You will learn to move through the demi-pointe to a full pointe position, emphasizing control and timing. Using a TheraBand provides the necessary resistance to engage the muscles of the arch and calf, ensuring that every movement is deliberate.
We pay special attention to the big toe, isolating it to improve alignment and prevent it from collapsing inward—a common challenge when preparing for en pointe work. In addition to strength, this session tackles ankle stability and alignment. You will practice controlled sickling and winging movements at various heights to develop a keen sense of proprioception.
By mastering these transitions, you can ensure your ankles remain strong and aligned during relevé and other demanding movements. We also explore synchronized toe articulation, ensuring that all toes arrive at the full pointe simultaneously, creating a beautiful, uniform line. The class concludes with manual stretches for the second knuckles of the toes, helping to increase overall flexibility and range of motion.
Beyond the technical drills, the session includes a community discussion about returning to dance after pregnancy or injury, reflecting Broche Ballet’s commitment to supporting dancers at every stage of their lives. Join us to refine your technique and prepare your feet for the elegance and strength of dancing en pointe.
