What You'll Learn
- Enhance proprioception through single-leg deadlifts and reaching drills.
- Improve stability in relevé and arabesque with a focus on centering.
- Master fondu and cou-de-pied transitions for fluid center work.
- Develop better turnout control and alignment during weight shifts.
- Build ankle strength and balance through quarter-turn relevé exercises.
About This Video
Mastering stability in the center is one of the most challenging aspects of ballet technique. In this 11-minute class from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into advanced balancing and proprioception drills designed to challenge your internal awareness and strengthen your supporting side. Proprioception—the body's ability to sense its location and movement in space—is vital for executing complex center work with grace and precision.
This session begins with foundational stability work, including parallel holds often referred to as 'Little Flamingo,' before progressing into dynamic challenges. You will work through single-leg deadlifts and reaching exercises that force the core and standing leg to find alignment while the center of gravity shifts. These functional movements are paired with classical ballet terminology to ensure your strength translates directly to the stage.
We will explore the mechanics of turnout and flexibility through a series of tendu and plié exercises in first position, emphasizing the articulation of the foot and the engagement of the rotators. The class also features a comprehensive fondu series combined with cou-de-pied work to refine your 'melting' quality and weight placement. As we move into an arabesque series and relevé drills, you will practice finding your axis while looking around and executing quarter turns, which are essential skills for developing a professional-level sense of balance.
Whether you are looking to steady your pirouettes or improve your adagio, these drills provide the technical framework necessary for peak performance. Join us in the center to refine your alignment, strengthen your ankles, and gain the confidence to hold every position with poise.
