This exercise helps to advance the technical skills required for pointe work, emphasising the importance of metatarsal strength, foot articulation, and precision in footwork. This exercise progresses from foundational pointe training, ensuring students develop the necessary control and strength before undertaking more complex movements. It is essential to confirm students have passed a physiotherapists pointe assessment and have a solid foundation in pointe development before introducing this enchaînement.
Preparation: Have students utilize a long resistance band and a ballet barre. Ensure the students wrap the band around their thighs correctly, promoting engagement and resistance without hindering movement.
Steps:
1. Have students start with the student facing the barre in fifth position, maintaining an upright posture.
2. Instruct students to perform three échappé relevés to second position, ensuring the feet change cleanly each time.
3. Guide students to move into a relevé in fifth position, focusing on the strength and stability required to maintain the position.
4. Guide students through bourrée (courus) passé twice, emphasising the quick, precise movements of the feet.
5. Highlight the importance of controlling the equal lowering of both feet simultaneously to conclude the exercise.
6. Have students repeat the sequence on the alternate side for balanced training.
Focus: Stress the importance of maintaining a correct posture and alignment throughout the exercise to support efficient movement and prevent injury.
Preguntas frecuentes
How can I ensure students don't strain their ankles during the bourrée passé?
What if a student struggles with maintaining fifth position during the relevé?