What You'll Learn
- How to engage dormant upper back muscles through resistance drills like the knuckle-squeeze.
- Mastering the opposing actions of the shoulder blades in first position and second position.
- Using the triceps to create length and straighten the arms while maintaining back engagement.
- Techniques for breathing into the rib cage to add levity and width to your carriage.
- Proper elbow and wrist placement to achieve a clean, professional classical line.
About This Video
Elevate your classical technique with this targeted 12-minute practice from Broche Ballet, specifically designed to help you master the nuances of port de bras in the center. Many dancers struggle with 'floating' arms that lack a solid connection to the core and back. This session bridges that gap by teaching you how to activate the upper back and shoulder blades, providing the necessary strength to support beautiful, fluid arm movements that look effortless yet remain technically grounded.
The practice begins with an innovative knuckle-squeezing drill. This exercise is essential for waking up often-dormant muscles between the shoulder blades, creating a physical map of where your power should originate. You will learn how to resist the body's natural tendencies by pulling the shoulder blades together to stabilize your first position and widening them to create a broad, expansive second position. This anatomical awareness is what separates a beginner's carriage from a professional classical line. Understanding the mechanics of the scapula is vital for maintaining the height of the elbows and the proper placement of the wrists throughout every movement.
We dive deep into the relationship between the triceps and the back. By engaging the triceps to lengthen the arms into allongé, you can maintain a straight, elegant line without sacrificing the integrity of your upper body posture. The instructor guides you through transitions between first position, second position, and low fifth, emphasizing the importance of 'resistance.' Instead of simply moving the arms through space, you will practice moving as if through water, feeling the muscles of the back pull and push against the air to ensure every movement is intentional.
Furthermore, this lesson explores the role of breath in ballet. By learning to breathe into the sides and back of the rib cage, you create a sense of internal levity. This technique allows your port de bras to feel light and airy even while the muscles of the back are working intensely. Whether you are looking to improve your presence in center work or simply want to feel more secure in your upper body alignment, this practice offers the essential tools you need to refine your artistry.
