What You'll Learn
- The 'up before back' rule to ensure a safe and supported cambré back.
- Proper head and eye focus to enhance the expressive line of the neck and shoulders.
- Techniques for isolating the shoulder blades to prevent lower back strain during extensions.
- How to maintain a true sideways plane during cambré side to avoid torso rotation.
- Leading with the opposite side of the body to keep the hips square during complex movements.
About This Video
Welcome to this specialized technique session at Broche Ballet, where we slow down the tempo to focus on the intricate mechanics of your movement. In this 17-minute 'Deep Dive,' we explore the nuances of cambré side and cambré back using a two-handed barre setup. This configuration provides the stability needed to isolate the upper body, allowing you to focus entirely on spinal lengthening and port de bras without the distraction of balancing on one leg. This class is designed for dancers who appreciate a meditative, detailed approach to their training, ensuring every movement is intentional and technically sound.
Throughout the session, our instructor breaks down the essential 'up and over' sensation required for a safe and beautiful cambré back. You will learn why you must always initiate with an upward lift before arching back, protecting your lower back by engaging the shoulder blades rather than hinging at the waist. We also delve into the specifics of cambré side, emphasizing the importance of staying in a single plane of motion. By focusing on moving straight sideways and avoiding any forward or backward twisting, you will develop a much cleaner line and stronger core engagement.
In addition to spinal work, we incorporate movements like tendu, coup-de-pied, and attitude to see how upper-body positioning affects the stability of the lower body. We pay special attention to head placement—learning to look behind the shoulder to complete the line—and the concept of leading with the opposite side to maintain square hips. Whether you are practicing in flat shoes or working on your pointe technique, these foundational details are the key to transitioning from a student to a polished performer. Join us as we refine your technique one detail at a time, building the strength and awareness necessary for advanced ballet vocabulary.
