What You'll Learn
- Techniques for articulating the foot through precise tendu and relevé movements.
- How to maintain a forward heel in passé and relevé to ensure proper turnout and stability.
- Refining transitions in pas de bourrée and piqué sous-sus for a cleaner line.
- Targeted calf and arch stretches to release tension and prevent injury after pointe work.
About This Video
Welcome to the "Fabulous 15" series at Broche Ballet, where we prioritize the precision and strength required for elegant pointe work. This 15-minute follow-along class is specifically designed to target the arches, ankles, and calves, providing a spicy yet slow-paced conditioning session that builds the stability every dancer needs. Whether you are looking to improve your balance en pointe or simply want to strengthen your feet for flat-shoe work, these exercises offer a comprehensive approach to foot articulation.
Our session begins with a focused warm-up, utilizing coup-de-pied movements and controlled foot rolls to activate the intrinsic muscles of the feet. This initial phase is vital for preparing the body for the higher demands of pointe work. As we transition into more complex movements, we emphasize technical accuracy in every transition.
In the pas de bourrée, for instance, we focus on maintaining a tight coup-de-pied rather than passing through an open first position, ensuring a more refined aesthetic. The class also incorporates piqué sous-sus, where we focus on the rolling action of the foot to ensure a smooth and stable ascent. Throughout exercises like tendu and relevé, the emphasis remains on keeping the heel forward, preventing the foot from sickling and ensuring the leg remains correctly turned out.
We also explore the nuances of the passé and fondu, reinforcing the alignment necessary for advanced center work. To conclude this intensive session, we dedicate time to recovery. You will learn specific calf stretches and arch releases, including the pigeon-toe stretch, which are essential for alleviating the tension that naturally accumulates during pointe sessions.
Finish the class with a satisfying shake-out of the feet to release any remaining tightness. This Broche Ballet conditioning class is your go-to resource for building the resilient, expressive feet required for beautiful ballet technique.
