What You'll Learn
- Master the transition from demi-plié to relevé while maintaining a tall, lifted posture.
- Develop superior ankle stability and control through halfway 'hover' exercises.
- Improve alignment by tracking the ankle over the big toe during single-leg work.
- Engage the core and inner thighs to support balance and turnout during rises.
About This Video
Elevate your daily practice with our 'Fast 5' series, designed specifically for dancers who want to maximize their time without sacrificing technique. This 5-minute ballet class focuses intensely on the mechanics of the relevé, a foundational movement that builds the essential ankle strength and calf stability required for everything from pirouettes to pointe work. Led by our expert instructors at Broche Ballet, this session is perfect as a quick warm-up or a standalone strength-building routine.
You will begin in a parallel position to establish a strong midline and neutral alignment before transitioning into the classic first position. Throughout the exercises, we emphasize the 'wrap' of the turnout and the importance of a deep, controlled demi-plié. One of the unique aspects of this challenge is the 'hover' technique.
By lifting the heels only halfway off the ground and holding that position, you engage the stabilizing muscles of the lower leg and the deep core. We focus on keeping the knees pulled together and lifting up through the belly button, ensuring that your height comes from your energy and alignment rather than pushing from the hips. As we progress to single-leg work, you will learn to maintain proper tracking, ensuring the ankle moves toward the big toe during the demi-plié to avoid rolling.
The challenge concludes with a series of rises and controlled lowers through the demi-pointe, forcing you to find your balance even as the muscles begin to fatigue. Whether you are at home or in the studio, this short but powerful class provides the repetition and technical cues needed to improve your rise and find greater ease in your center work. Join us at Broche Ballet and feel the burn as you refine your relevé in just five minutes.
