40-Minute Ballet Barre: Building Stamina and Standing Hip Strength

In this comprehensive 40-minute ballet barre class from Broche Ballet, Julie leads you through a series of exercises specifically designed to enhance your stamina and foundational strength. Whether you are a beginner looking to solidify your technique or an experienced dancer aiming to refine your control, this session offers valuable insights into the mechanics of the standing hip—the unsung hero of ballet stability. The core focus of this class is maintaining a lifted and stable standing hip.

You will learn how this control is essential for executing a smooth grand rond de jambe, especially during the challenging transition from side to back. By keeping the standing hip engaged, you prevent unwanted shifting in the pelvis, allowing for a more expansive and controlled range of motion. Julie emphasizes the importance of pressing the heel forward and keeping the knee rotated toward the side to ensure proper alignment throughout every tendu and dégagé.

As the class progresses, we explore the relationship between tempo and technique. Stamina isn't just about lasting through a long combination; it is about maintaining precision when the music speeds up. You will practice shifting from slow, controlled movements to quicker rhythms, focusing on specific patterns that challenge your balance and require a deep sense of grounding to allow the working leg to move with ease.

We also tackle technical nuances such as the arabesque and the dead point during transitions. You will learn how to brush through the floor with intent, lifting the toes and facing them forward to maintain a seamless flow between positions. By focusing on these often-overlooked details, you will build the strength and muscle memory needed for more advanced center work.

Join us at Broche Ballet for this energizing barre practice to refine your technique and elevate your dancing.