What You'll Learn
- Master the Dehant exercise to properly stretch the hip flexors and seat the femur.
- Techniques for foot articulation between flexing and pointing to enhance extension lines.
- Correct alignment for arabesque to prevent 'hugging' the barre and improve leg height.
- Strategies for maintaining turnout and square shoulders during active stretching.
- Targeted stretches for the hamstrings, quads, and calves to support higher legs.
About This Video
Achieving high, graceful leg extensions is a hallmark of a refined ballet technique, but it requires more than just raw flexibility. In this specialized class from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the mechanics of the hip, leg, and foot to help you find more space and control in your movements. We begin with the Dehant exercise, a powerful sequence designed to stretch the leg and hip flexors while ensuring the femur bone remains properly seated in the socket. This focus on internal alignment is crucial for preventing injury and maximizing your range of motion.
Throughout the session, you will be guided through a series of foundational movements including plié and relevé at the barre. We emphasize the importance of foot articulation, transitioning between flexing and pointing the foot (en pointe) to build strength and awareness through the entire limb. You will also explore specific stretches for the hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves, all while maintaining the proper turnout necessary for classical ballet.
One of the highlights of this class is the focus on the arabesque position. We address common pitfalls, such as the leg 'hugging' the barre or the foot draping over the wood. By focusing on proper alignment and keeping the shoulders square, you will learn how to lift the leg higher without compromising your posture. Whether you are working on your extensions à la seconde or behind you in arabesque, these exercises provide the structural foundation needed to carry your flexibility from the barre into center work. Join us to refine your technique and find a new sense of length and ease in your dancing.
