What You'll Learn
- Dynamic barre stretches devant and à la seconde to increase range of motion
- Techniques for maintaining core stability during deep extensions
- How to use the barre safely to deepen your flexibility and spinal alignment
- Tips for finding balance and strength through promenade exercises
- Active stretching techniques to improve turnout and hip release
About This Video
Welcome to Broche Ballet’s specialized session on mastering barre stretches and extensions. This class is meticulously designed to help dancers unlock their flexibility and refine their lines. By incorporating these focused exercises into your regular practice, you will develop the core stability and leg strength necessary for high extensions and effortless balance during center work.
We begin with foundational movements devant, emphasizing the lengthening of the spine and the engagement of the standing leg. Throughout the lesson, we practice flexing and stretching the foot to ensure your flexibility is supported by active muscular strength. A key highlight of this class is the use of the promenade, a movement that challenges your stability while helping you find your center without the support of the barre.
We dive deep into cambré movements, where the instructor emphasizes reaching back and up, driving energy through the fingertips to create a beautiful, elongated line. You will learn how to properly use the barre to stretch over the leg, working to find a longer spine and released hips. For dancers seeking an extra challenge, we explore variations such as grabbing the heel or arch to lift the leg off the barre.
This helps in finding the correct rotation from the hip socket and engaging the obliques for a deeper twist. Whether you are using a professional barre or a sturdy chair at home, these stretches will help you reach longer, stretch deeper, and stand taller in your ballet practice.
