What You'll Learn
- How to maintain active bicep engagement to support your arm positions
- Techniques for avoiding elbow hyperextension to preserve classical curves
- Proper alignment and shoulder stability in first, second, and high fifth
- Developing a smooth, controlled flow during transitions and allongé movements
About This Video
The expressive power of a dancer often lies in their upper body, yet port de bras is frequently overlooked in favor of complex footwork. In this 15-minute specialized class from Broche Ballet, we refocus on the mechanics of arm movement to help you achieve a more professional and fluid aesthetic. This session is designed to move beyond simple positioning and into the active engagement required for truly beautiful lines.
A primary focus of this lesson is addressing the common challenge of elbow hyperextension. When the elbow locks out, it disrupts the soft, continuous curve that defines classical ballet. Our instructor guides you through techniques to maintain a 'soft' elbow, ensuring that your lines remain graceful from the shoulder all the way through the wrist and fingertips.
To support these shapes, we emphasize the importance of bicep muscle tone. By keeping the biceps active, you provide the necessary support to hold your arms in first position, second position, and high fifth without straining the shoulders or collapsing the frame. Throughout the practice, you will work on the transition between these positions, focusing on the flow and the use of allongé to lengthen the movement.
We also address proper shoulder placement, teaching you how to keep the shoulders back and down even as the arms move through dynamic ranges of motion. This class is an essential practice for any dancer looking to eliminate tension, improve their control in the center, and develop the effortless strength required for advanced port de bras.
