What You'll Learn
- How to actively curve the shank of your pointe shoe using floor pressure and body weight.
- Techniques for maintaining full toe engagement to prevent the foot from softening during transitions.
- Strategies to improve balance in susu and single-leg positions through tactile foot feedback.
- The mechanics of executing a strong pas de bourrée while remaining fully engaged en pointe.
About This Video
Unlock a new level of control in your pointe work with this intensive technique practice from Broche Ballet. This session focuses on the intricate relationship between the foot and the pointe shoe, specifically how to 'shape' the shoe to create a more functional and aesthetic line. Many dancers struggle with their feet going soft inside the shoe, leading to instability or a 'flopped' appearance.
In this class, you will learn how to utilize consistent foot pressure and active toe engagement against the shank to ensure your foot remains fully articulated at all times. The curriculum guides you through foundational movements, starting in first position and moving into a tight susu. We then transition into more dynamic movements like pas de bourrée, where maintaining pressure is vital for a seamless look.
A major focus of this practice is the tactile connection; by ensuring your toes are actively touching the bottom of the shoe, you create a solid foundation for better balance. We explore this concept through various relevés and transitions, eventually moving from two-footed support to challenging single-leg balances in coup de pied. By the end of this 12-minute practice, you will understand how to use your body weight and floor pressure to curve the shank of the shoe, rather than simply standing on top of it.
This active engagement not only improves your stability but also enhances the overall strength of your arches and the beauty of your line. Whether you are working on your tendu mechanics or perfecting your transitions en pointe, these drills will help you feel more secure and powerful in your shoes.
