What You'll Learn
- How to master balance on flat feet while wearing pointe shoes to prepare for center work
- Techniques for articulating the foot to properly operate the pointe shoe's shank and box
- Strategies for building stability during relevé and finding depth in your plié
- Methods to develop the confidence needed to transition from the barre to the center
About This Video
Transitioning to en pointe work is one of the most exciting milestones for any dancer, but it often comes with a steep learning curve. At Broche Ballet, we believe that the secret to success en pointe actually starts with your feet flat on the floor. Our Barre in Pointe Shoes class is specifically designed to bridge the gap between traditional technique and the unique demands of pointe work by focusing on foundational mechanics.
In this class, we shift the focus away from simply standing on the tips of your toes. Instead, we spend significant time practicing essential exercises at the barre while wearing your pointe shoes but staying on the flat. This approach allows you to focus on the articulation and operation of the shoe itself.
By understanding how the shank and box interact with your foot during a plié or a tendu, you develop a much deeper level of control and proprioception. One of the primary goals of this class is building center confidence. Many dancers feel secure at the barre but lose their stability when they move to the center.
By practicing balances and relevés on flat while wearing pointe shoes, you train your neuromuscular system to handle the added weight and different feel of the shoe without the immediate pressure of being en pointe. This builds the foundational strength necessary to eventually leave the barre with ease. Furthermore, this class emphasizes the importance of a functional plié and a controlled relevé.
You will learn how to push through the floor and use the shoe as a tool rather than a hindrance. This curriculum has proven highly successful for our beginner students, helping them progress faster and feel more comfortable in their gear within just a few months. Whether you are a new pointe student or an experienced dancer looking to refine your articulation, this class offers the technical breakdown you need to excel in your pointe journey.