What You'll Learn
- Optimize femur bone alignment in the hip for higher, freer extensions.
- Master the engagement of the upper back and glutes for a strong arabesque.
- Develop core stabilization techniques to maintain balance during twists and pulses.
- Effective stretches for the quadriceps and hip flexors to improve range of motion.
- Refine your arabesque cambré with proper shoulder and arm activation.
About This Video
Enhance your ballet practice with this focused session dedicated to refining your extensions and perfecting your arabesque. At Broche Ballet, we understand that achieving a beautiful leg line requires more than just flexibility; it demands precise anatomical alignment and muscular engagement. This class dives deep into the mechanics of the hip and upper back to help you find more height and stability in your positions.
The session begins with a detailed look at the barre, where we focus on the placement of the femur bone within the hip socket. Understanding how to create space in the hip while maintaining a stable pelvis is crucial for both extensions à la seconde and to the back. We then transition into targeted stretches for the quadriceps and hip flexors, ensuring you have the functional range of motion needed for a deep demi-plié or a high extension.
Julie emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper posture even during intense stretches to build reliable muscle memory. A significant portion of the practice is dedicated to the arabesque and arabesque cambré. You will learn the nuances of activating the glutes and the upper back simultaneously to support the weight of the leg.
By learning to engage the core and keep the shoulders level during a cambré, you’ll develop the strength to support your leg without compromising your spinal integrity. We also explore pulses at the barre, emphasizing the importance of keeping the hands equally pressed down to maintain balance and square shoulders. Beyond height, this class addresses spinal flexibility with a specialized twist exercise.
This helps dancers maintain a long, elegant back while performing complex movements. Whether you are aiming for a more stable turnout or better core stabilization, these exercises provide a comprehensive toolkit for the dedicated dancer. By incorporating these techniques into your regular routine at Broche Ballet, you will notice a significant improvement in your extension height, balance, and overall grace.
