Available to Stream Instantly Online.Description
MUSIC: New Ballet Music 9, Track 4, 3/4
Get it on iTunes
LENGTH: 15 minutes, 54 seconds
PURPOSE OF THIS EXERCISE: This exercise teaches you how to work your foot for optimal strength when you jump
DESCRIPTION:
Part One: Instructions from Finis Jhung
Part Two: Technical breakdown of the exercise with Finis and demonstrator Vernard Gilmore
Part Three: Demonstration with music by Vernard with Finis standing by and coaching
Most adult beginners have trouble jumping because they don’t know how to use and work their feet. They tend to overwork their legs and under-use the feet.
This exercise shows you how to use your foot correctly.
You will practice the correct sequence of movement as you roll your foot from flat to half-toe and then push it off the floor quickly to a full point in the air. This rolling, pushing, and pointing action – when done quickly – is what makes you jump.
AUDIENCE: The adult ballet beginner
TRAINING REQUIRED: You are familiar with basic ballet technique and are strong enough to jump.
EQUIPMENT: A barre or two high-backed sturdy chairs, a full-length mirror
“I’ve been doing your DVDs with my mother in her 60s. It’s helping her out a lot with learning to keep her balance and have good posture. Even the slightest movements have helped strengthen her muscles. We love you.”
— Trula Hudelson
“I must say I am a big fan of the streaming singles. Having them with me on my phone, makes it easy to dance when I have a few spare minutes. Since they are short in length, I am able to really focus on the few key points that are presented. After working through the three Foot Strength videos, I was surprised to find I was turning better at my next class. The Temps lie & Cambré Dance at Home video is so calm and nice and reminds me of those basic principles of proper form that can help my dancing look nicer as well. Thanks!”
—Leslie Miller, Adult Student
“I find these videos incredibly helpful. Recently I was unable to attend your class and was delighted to know that I had the option of maintaining consistency by viewing and practicing with these videos at home. The format provides me with the tools I need to learn/practice with clear instructions. The beautiful artistic as well as technical demonstrations by the dancers are also a much-appreciated feature. Thank you!”
— Wendy Williams McDonnell.
“As an adult learner with no previous ballet experience, I was looking to gain more control and strength in my feet to improve my dancing and avoid injuries. I ordered the foot strength videos and immediately liked the format of a short video divided into separate sections. Through Finis’ explanations and the technical breakdowns, I was able to visualize and better understand what I was aiming to do. I have only just started to do the exercises, but already I am more aware of working through my feet and using the floor, both of which will help me to progress and improve.”
—Hazel Alexander