What You'll Learn
- Proper push-off mechanics to execute a clean piqué sus-sous
- Coordination for piqué balancé and pas de bourrée combinations
- Essential Achilles tendon and ankle stretches for pointe health
- Techniques for rolling down through the feet with control and precision
- How to maintain body alignment and calibration during traveling steps
About This Video
In Class #12 of the Broche Ballet Winter Beginner Pointe Cohort, we transition from foundational barre work into more dynamic traveling movements. This 27-minute practice is designed to help students bridge the gap between static strength and fluid execution en pointe. Our primary focus today is mastering the piqué sus-sous and the piqué balancé, both of which are essential for moving across the floor with grace and stability.
One of the most critical elements discussed in this lesson is the concept of calibration. To achieve a successful piqué—which means to prick—the dancer must coordinate a sharp push from the floor with a strong, straight supporting leg. We break down the role of the pushing leg versus the landing leg to ensure you are propelling yourself directly over your box with proper alignment.
Without this precision, it is difficult to maintain the necessary control for a clean sus-sous. We also delve into the complexity of the piqué balancé and pas de bourrée combinations. These sequences require a high level of proprioception, as they involve shifting weight quickly while maintaining a lifted core and stable ankles.
The instructor provides specific feedback on rolling down from pointe safely to protect the joints and develop eccentric strength in the calves. Beyond the footwork, Class #12 emphasizes the importance of injury prevention. We include dedicated time for stretching the Achilles tendon and the ankles, which is vital for any dancer working in pointe shoes.
By focusing on these recovery techniques alongside your technical training, you ensure longevity in your ballet practice. Whether you are following the cohort in real-time or revisiting this class for extra repetition, these exercises will help you build the confidence needed for advanced beginner pointe work.
