What You'll Learn
- Master the placement of the standing femur head for better stability.
- Learn to engage the back and glute muscles for higher extensions.
- Understand how to correct hyperextension and hip alignment.
- Practice specific barre-based stretches to increase hip flexibility.
- Perform pulses and lifts to build strength for holding the leg.
About This Video
The arabesque is one of the most iconic and beautiful positions in ballet, yet achieving the perfect line requires a complex balance of strength, flexibility, and precise alignment. In this specialized class from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the mechanics of the arabesque, focusing on how to use the barre effectively to enhance your stretches and extensions. We begin by addressing the foundation of the position: the standing leg.
Many dancers struggle with stability or sitting into their hip, which can hinder the height of the leg. You will learn how to properly position your standing femur head directly over your foot. This technical adjustment is crucial for creating a solid base and allowing the working leg to reach its full potential.
For dancers with hyperextension, we provide specific cues to push the hip forward rather than backward, ensuring a safe and aesthetically pleasing line that protects the joints. Moving upward, the class explores the engagement of the pelvis and core. To achieve a truly lifted arabesque, the center must remain active, lifting past the height of the leg itself.
We discuss how the lower and upper back work in tandem to complete the arc of the movement, preventing a crunching sensation in the lumbar spine. Through a series of targeted stretches at the barre, you will learn to open the hips while maintaining square shoulders. The session also includes active conditioning exercises, such as pulses toward the ceiling and controlled leg lifts off the barre.
These movements target the glute and back muscles, building the functional strength needed to hold an extension without the support of the barre. By focusing on reaching through the pinky toe and maintaining a long, energized line, you will see a noticeable improvement in your height and control. Whether you are looking to refine your classical form or simply want to feel more secure in your center work, these techniques offer the tools you need for success.
