What You'll Learn
- How to execute precise prances in parallel to improve ankle alignment and avoid sickling.
- Techniques for engaging the calf muscles through controlled demi-plié and relevé movements.
- Effective stretches for the calves and the tops of the feet to improve foot flexibility.
- Methods for maintaining hip stability and proper turnout during standing footwork.
- Building the specific muscular stamina required for the transition to dancing en pointe.
About This Video
Preparing for pointe work is one of the most exciting milestones in a dancer’s journey. At Broche Ballet, we believe that building a solid foundation is the key to safety and success en pointe. This 9-minute Well-rounded Standing Pre-pointe Flow is specifically designed to target the critical areas of stamina, flexibility, and ankle strength through a series of focused, standing exercises.
The class begins in a parallel position, focusing on the prance. This fundamental movement helps dancers develop the coordination needed to transition through the foot properly. You will learn to keep your ankles aligned, ensuring they skim each other as you leave the floor to avoid sickling.
A key technical focus here is stopping on the ball of the foot at the peak of the movement to maximize the demi-pointe stretch without flipping the foot over prematurely. As we move into more complex sequences, you will work through demi-plié and pressing movements. We emphasize hip stability, keeping the hips centered over the feet even when hopping or shifting weight to build a steady core.
You will engage your calf muscles during relevé and practice smooth transitions to avoid sitting back on the heels, which is essential for maintaining balance. Flexibility is just as important as strength. This flow includes dedicated calf stretches and exercises that involve flipping the foot over to stretch the tops of the toes.
These stretches are essential for achieving a beautiful line and preventing common dance injuries. Finally, the class transitions into a turned-out position. Here, you will practice relevé by pointing the feet and lifting the heels while keeping the legs completely straight.
We pay close attention to the knees, ensuring they press out and do not swing inward during the lift. Whether you are currently preparing for your first pair of pointe shoes or simply want to improve your stability for allegro and balance in center work, this standing flow offers a comprehensive workout for your lower body. Join our Broche Ballet community and take the next step toward stronger, more resilient ankles.
