What You'll Learn
- Proper alignment and weight transfer mechanics during a relevé
- How to use a plié and fondu as transitions to build power and control
- Techniques for maintaining balance on one leg with a stable working hip
- Strengthening the arches and metatarsals by pressing over the big toe
- Maintaining core engagement while executing precision dégagé movements
About This Video
Welcome to this 'Fast 5' session at Broche Ballet, where we dive deep into one of the most fundamental yet challenging elements of ballet technique: the relevé. In just under five minutes, this targeted class will help you build the foot strength, ankle stability, and core control necessary for graceful jumps and steady turns. The relevé is the bridge between stationary poses and dynamic movement, making it essential for dancers at every level to master.
The session begins in first position, focusing on the precise mechanics of the rise. We emphasize the importance of pressing through the floor and over the big toe to ensure proper alignment and avoid rolling on the ankles. You will practice shifting your weight with precision, feeling the engagement of your inner thighs and abdominals as you ascend and descend. This exercise isn't just about the height of the rise; it's about the resistance and control you maintain throughout the entire movement.
As we progress, the routine incorporates various movements to challenge your center of gravity and muscle memory. You will work through plié transitions, learning how a deep, controlled bend provides the necessary spring for a high relevé. We also integrate fondu and dégagé variations to test your stability. The fondu acts as a melting transition, challenging your balance on a single supporting leg, while the dégagé requires you to maintain a stable hip and a strong standing leg as the working leg disengages from the floor. We also incorporate elements like the tombé and stretching through the arch to ensure a full range of motion.
Throughout the class, we focus on the minor details that make a major difference in your performance. From the stretch of the metatarsals to the positioning of the heels in first position, every movement is designed to refine your artistry. We will also explore holding your balance with extended arms, helping you find your center even when your focus is on complex footwork. Whether you are preparing for pointe work or simply want to improve your stability at the barre, this quick routine is the perfect addition to your daily practice. Join us at Broche Ballet and elevate your technique one relevé at a time.
