Techniques to help achieve a beautifully arched foot.

For dancers, creating clean, strong lines is important in conveying the essence of dance to the audience, be it in a class, rehearsal or on stage. The extension of the legs, for example, is only truly perfected by the continuation of the leg line into the foot, pointed to create a sense of infinite reach. A pointed foot is not always required in certain choreography or classes, such as some contemporary work and sometimes jazz classes too, but when pointed feet are required, there are certain techniques which can be employed in order to give the impression of an elongated and aesthetically pleasing foot. As with much of the dancing body's form, much of its stereotypical appeal is a result of genetics, with body parts such as long legs and supple feet favoured. Of course these are desirable and not required in order to dance, but often dancers work to improve the body they have, such as by stretching and toning in their spare time. Dancers are also renowned to try and improve the arch and "pointe" of their feet, which is largely due to the strength and flexibility of the foot, but this can be enhanced. Using an Exercise Band can be effective in strengthening the feet, by working the instep against the resistance of the large elastic band. This then accentuates the instep (the arch on the underneath of the foot) and makes it stronger for when it is required to point without the band. In addition to this practical method, working to tilt the ankles when the foot is pointed can give the illusion of a beautifully arched foot, also known as "winging" to make the feet appear more flexible and aesthetically pleasing. By practising pointing your feet and tilting the ankles in towards each other, your audience will see a fantastic arch and the apparent ease of doing this. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3W8KDjLtsY