What You'll Learn
- How to maintain a straight back leg during deep plié stretches
- Techniques for lifting and lowering extensions without bending the knee
- Proper arm coordination and body alignment for a stable arabesque
- Maintaining turnout by keeping the heel forward when opening the knee
- Effective cool-down and relaxation methods after extension work
About This Video
Welcome to this intensive 20-minute session at Broche Ballet, where we dive deep into the mechanics of flexibility and leg height. This challenging barre stretching routine is specifically designed for dancers who want to push their boundaries and achieve more effortless extensions. Throughout the class, we focus on the delicate balance between strength and flexibility, ensuring that every movement is supported by proper technique.
We begin with a series of plié and stretch exercises at the barre. The focus here is on maintaining a straight back leg and ensuring the standing leg remains stable. You will learn how to articulate the extension from the hip without compromising the alignment of the pelvis.
Julie guides you through the technical nuances of lifting and lowering the working leg, emphasizing the need to keep the knee fully engaged and the heel pressing forward. These small adjustments are the key to building the functional strength required for high, beautiful lines. The centerpiece of the routine is a dedicated arabesque sequence.
Here, we address common challenges such as the coordination of the arms and the stability of the standing leg. You will learn the correct placement for the port de bras in arabesque, specifically lifting the arm that corresponds to the standing leg to create a harmonious and balanced silhouette. We also explore the cambré to develop back flexibility, which is essential for a high arabesque.
Consistency is vital in ballet, and this routine provides the structure needed to see real progress in your range of motion. We conclude the class with a series of cool-down exercises and relaxation techniques. This ensures your muscles recover properly after the intense work on extensions, leaving you feeling lengthened and energized.
By slowing down the movements at the barre, you can pay closer attention to the engagement of your core and the rotation in your hips. Join the Broche Ballet community and take your extensions to the next level.
