What You'll Learn
- Targeted stretches to increase leg height in arabesque and penché positions
- Techniques for engaging the core and standing hip to maintain balance and stability
- How to use the barre as a tool for alignment rather than a crutch for weight
- The role of hamstring strengthening in supporting high extensions and forward hinges
- Specific tips for maintaining a long spine and avoiding lower back compression
About This Video
Elevate your dancing with this targeted Broche Ballet class designed to unlock higher leg extensions and greater flexibility. Whether you are struggling to lift your leg in arabesque or looking to refine your penché, this session provides the technical foundation and stretching techniques necessary for beautiful, controlled movements at the barre. Higher legs aren't just about flexibility; they require a delicate balance of core stability, standing hip strength, and lower back engagement.
Our instructor guides you through a series of exercises that focus on maintaining a long, supported spine while reaching your maximum range of motion. In this class, we explore positions like à la seconde to open the hips and prepare the body for the unique demands of back extensions. One of the key focuses of this tutorial is the role of the hamstrings and the hip flexors.
By strengthening these muscle groups alongside focused stretching, you can achieve a more secure and aesthetically pleasing line. We also emphasize the proper use of the barre. Instead of leaning on it, you will learn how to use the barre as a tool for alignment, ensuring your weight remains over the ball of the standing foot even during deep penché movements.
Throughout the practice, you will receive cues on proper alignment and core engagement. These short, quick stretches and sustained extensions are designed to build the functional flexibility required for classical ballet. Developing a high arabesque is often a primary goal for many adult dancers, and this class addresses common pitfalls, such as collapsing in the lower back or losing the turnout of the standing leg.
By incorporating specific barre exercises, we work on isolating the muscles of the glutes and back to create a lifted, elegant line. We also look at how to transition smoothly into a penché without losing the height of the working leg, a common challenge that requires significant core control and hamstring flexibility. This holistic approach ensures that your improvements are sustainable and technically sound.
