A Better Way to Do Sous-sus: Refining Foot Shape and Muscle Engagement

Mastering the sous-sus is a hallmark of a refined ballet technique. While it may seem like a simple rise to the balls of the feet in fifth position, the nuances of the foot shape and muscle engagement can make a world of difference in your stability and aesthetic line. In this Broche Ballet quick tip, we dive into a specific adjustment that will transform how you approach this essential movement.

The most common mistake dancers make in a sous-sus is allowing the back toes to tuck directly behind the front heel or allowing the toes to bunch together. This often leads to a lack of stability and prevents the proper muscles from firing. To achieve a better sous-sus, the focus should shift from the toes to the ankles.

Instead of thinking about the feet as a single block, imagine pulling your bottom toe away from your front foot. This action creates a vital bit of space between the front and back toes, which is essential for proper body alignment and balance. When you pull the back toe away, your ankles should naturally come into contact.

In a correct sous-sus, it is the ankles that touch, not the toes. This specific ankle action allows for a more secure locking of the position. Furthermore, this adjustment helps you engage the outside of your calf muscle.

By focusing on this shape of the foot, you ensure that the lower leg is working efficiently to support your weight, rather than relying solely on the smaller muscles of the feet. Refining your sous-sus technique through these small but impactful adjustments will improve your overall footwork and prepare you for more advanced movements like pirouettes and pointe work. By maintaining space between the toes and focusing on the ankle-to-ankle connection, you create a cleaner line and a stronger foundation.

Join us at Broche Ballet as we break down these technical details to help you dance with more confidence and grace.