What You'll Learn
- Correct ankle alignment and weight distribution en pointe to avoid sickling
- Strategies for finding and holding a steady balance by letting go of the barre
- Deep ankle and arch stretching techniques using grand plié and demi-pointe
- Execution of smooth relevé and fondu transitions for better control
- Using port de bras and glute engagement to support one-legged balance
About This Video
Elevate your technique with the "Fabulous 15" slow pointework series at Broche Ballet. This 15-minute follow-along class is specifically designed to help dancers find their center and build confidence while en pointe. We begin with foundational parallel plié and tendu exercises, emphasizing the critical alignment of the ankles over the big toe. By starting in parallel, you can isolate the mechanics of the foot and ensure your weight is correctly distributed before moving into more complex rotations. Proper alignment is the bedrock of safe pointework, preventing sickling and ensuring that the box of the shoe is fully utilized.
Throughout this session, we explore the nuances of balance by alternating between demi-pointe and full pointe. You will be encouraged to relax the toes, allowing the arches to stretch deeper toward the floor, which is essential for achieving a beautiful line and functional strength. We incorporate grand plié to further stretch the ankles and prepare the body for the demands of sustained balance. Moving slowly allows you to feel every transition, from the moment the heel leaves the floor to the peak of the relevé. This slow tempo is perfect for identifying areas of instability and correcting them in real-time.
The class progresses to one-legged fondu exercises, where the focus shifts to control and finding stability through the supporting side. By engaging the glutes and pushing the heel forward while the knee pushes back, you will learn how to maintain stillness and let go of the barre with confidence. Finding that "sweet spot" on the box requires both strength and a calm upper body. We finish with a series of relevés and intentional port de bras to integrate the upper body with the strength of the feet. This holistic approach ensures that your balance is not just about the feet, but about the coordination of the entire body. Whether you are looking to refine your stability or seeking a focused follow-along for your daily practice, this Broche Ballet class provides the professional guidance needed to master the art of balance en pointe.
