What You'll Learn
- Master the control required during the descent from relevé to improve ankle stability.
- Enhance foot articulation through targeted demi-pointe and 'heel front' exercises.
- Develop core engagement and toe-to-shoe connection for crisp, articulated piqués.
- Improve balance and strength when transitioning from two legs to one leg in sus-sous.
About This Video
Elevate your pointe work with this intensive strength follow-along from Broche Ballet. Designed for the dancer on the go, this workout focuses on the foundational mechanics and muscle engagement required to dance safely and beautifully en pointe. We begin with foundational plié and relevé in first position to activate the calves and intrinsic muscles of the feet.
Throughout this session, you will dive deep into foot articulation. Exercises focusing on the demi-pointe and 'heel front' positions are essential for strengthening the metatarsals and ensuring a smooth transition through the shoe. One of the most critical elements we focus on is the descent phase—maintaining control as you lower from full pointe to avoid losing the pointed foot or 'clunking' down.
This control is what separates proficient dancers from beginners. As the burn intensifies, we move into more complex coordination including pas de bourrée and piqués. Here, the focus shifts to using your toes to actively hit the floor and engage the inside of the shoe.
We also emphasize core engagement, which is vital for maintaining your vertical alignment during quick shifts in weight. You will practice transitioning from two legs to one leg in relevé, a key skill for improving balance and single-leg stability. Broche Ballet understands the unique challenges of adult dancers training en pointe.
' These tactile metaphors help ensure your adductors and deep rotators are firing correctly. We finish by refining your alignment in sus-sous and discussing how to 'shape the shoes' by directing energy diagonally out and forward. By integrating these 10 minutes of non-stop work into your weekly routine, you will see a noticeable difference in your height on pointe and your stability during center work.
Join us at the barre and feel the burn!
