What You'll Learn
- Mastering proper demi-pointe alignment for better stability and balance
- Techniques to individualize toe movement and increase dexterity
- Self-massage methods to release tension in the arches, tendons, and Achilles
- Seated stretches to improve flexibility in the tops of the feet and ankles
- How to counteract the strain of daily activities like wearing high heels
About This Video
Building a strong foundation for pointe work starts long before you lace up your first pair of satin shoes. At Broche Ballet, we believe that foot health and toe dexterity are the cornerstones of a successful dance practice. This 15-minute seated pre-pointe session is designed to help you develop the strength, flexibility, and awareness necessary for stable ankles and articulate feet without needing a barre.
In this class, we move beyond basic stretches to focus on the intricate mechanics of the foot. You will learn the vital importance of demi-pointe alignment, ensuring that your weight is distributed correctly to prevent injury and improve balance. We delve into specific exercises to mobilize the toes—circling, folding, and stretching each one individually to wake up the intrinsic muscles of the foot.
Tension often accumulates in the tendons and along the Achilles due to daily life, whether from standing all day or wearing restrictive footwear like high heels. Our instructor guides you through self-massage techniques to release this tightness, reaching deep into the arches and even addressing the shin and quad muscles that support foot movement. By alleviating this tension, you create more space for a beautiful line and a more functional pointe.
One of the highlights of this session is the seated stretch on the tops of the feet. This targeted movement helps increase the range of motion in the ankle, which is essential for achieving a full pointe. Whether you are an aspiring student preparing for your first pointe assessment or a seasoned dancer looking to maintain foot suppleness, these exercises offer a gentle yet effective way to care for your most important tools.
Join us at Broche Ballet to refine your technique from the ground up. This floor-based practice requires no previous experience and provides the perfect supplementary training to your regular center and barre work.
