What You'll Learn
- Techniques to articulate through every part of the toe for a stronger rise.
- How to find and maintain neutral ankle alignment to prevent injury.
- Essential calf stretching exercises to balance intense footwork and relevés.
- Methods to engage all toes, including the fourth and pinky, for maximum stability.
About This Video
Elevate your ballet technique with this focused 11-minute pre-pointe class from Broche Ballet. Achieving a high, stable demi-pointe is a fundamental requirement for all dancers, whether you are preparing for your first pair of pointe shoes or simply looking to refine your classical line. In this session, we dive deep into the mechanics of the foot and ankle to build the necessary strength and flexibility for professional-level movement.
The class begins with a series of exercises designed to teach your ankles the meaning of neutral. Understanding where your weight is centered is crucial for avoiding sickling or bowing, which can lead to injury. We then move into detailed foot articulation.
You will learn to work through every part of the toe, from the ball of the foot to the tips, ensuring that every piece of skin makes contact with the floor as you relevé. This level of engagement activates the intrinsic muscles of the foot, providing the power needed for jumps and sustained balances. Throughout the lesson, you will practice fundamental movements such as demi pliés and tendus in various positions, including first and second.
We emphasize the importance of pressing into the floor—pushing down to go up. By focusing on the bottoms of the toes and ensuring the fourth and fifth toes are actively engaged, you create a wider, more secure base. To complement the strengthening work, the instructor guides you through essential calf stretching and flexibility exercises.
Maintaining supple calves is vital after repetitive relevé sequences to prevent tightness and maintain a full range of motion. By the end of this practice, you will have a better sense of your foot’s alignment and the muscular control required to hold a high demi-pointe with grace and stability. Join us at Broche Ballet and transform your footwork from the ground up.
