What You'll Learn
- Techniques for transferring weight smoothly on pointe from two legs to one.
- The 'scooping' mechanics of a proper su-su for better stability and alignment.
- How to execute bourrée movements with correct foot placement and 'glued' toes.
- Refining the coup de pied back with fondu to build one-legged strength.
- Maintaining proper body alignment and turnout during arabesque and pas de bourrée.
About This Video
Welcome to Class #8 of the Broche Ballet Winter 2024 Beginner Pointe series. This 61-minute session marks a pivotal point in our 16-week program as we transition from the stability of two-legged exercises to the refined challenge of one-legged movements. Throughout this class, the focus remains on building the foundational strength and technical precision required to dance en pointe with confidence and grace. Our curriculum today centers on the mechanics of relevé coup de pied, ensuring every dancer understands the weight transfer and alignment necessary for safe progression.
We begin with a detailed exploration of bourrée movements. The instructor emphasizes keeping the toes and pointe shoes 'glued' together, a technique that creates the seamless, ethereal gliding motion synonymous with professional ballet. You will practice transferring weight from leg to leg with careful control, focusing on maintaining a vertical axis and a strong core. This session also introduces the 'scooping' action of the su-su, a critical movement for finding your center and achieving a tight, stable position.
As we move through the exercises, we incorporate coup de pied back with a fondu, requiring a deep plié and a coordinated rise. These movements are paired with tombé and pas de bourrée sequences to help you master the flow of weight across the floor. In the arabesque portion of the class, you will focus on keeping the legs touching during transitions and using tiny, controlled steps to maintain balance. The instructor provides constant feedback on body alignment, encouraging you to avoid opening the legs too far in su-su and to keep your turnout engaged. To support foot health, we also include specific strengthening exercises like the 'pigeon toe' stretch to enhance the flexibility of your arch. Whether you are at the barre or practicing in the center, this class offers the structured guidance needed to elevate your pointe work to the next level.
