What You'll Learn
- How to use demi-plié to effectively warm up the hips and legs for deeper stretching.
- Techniques for maintaining square hips and proper alignment in à la seconde and arabesque.
- The role of relevé in settling the hips and improving stability during barre work.
- Specific methods for targeting the hamstrings, calves, and lower back safely.
- Mindfulness practices to identify and relax areas of tension during your stretch.
About This Video
Stretching is a fundamental part of a dancer's routine, but doing it effectively requires more than just flexibility—it requires precision. In this Broche Ballet class, we dive deep into barre stretches in all directions to help you achieve a more fluid and expansive range of motion. By focusing on the structural alignment of the body, you will learn how to safely push your limits while maintaining the grace and technique essential for classical ballet.
The session begins with a series of demi-plié and stretching exercises designed to warm up the hips and legs. This foundation is crucial for preparing the muscles for deeper work. As we transition through various positions, including arabesque and à la seconde, the instructor emphasizes the importance of identifying exactly where you feel the stretch.
Whether it is your lower back, your knees, your calves, or your hamstrings, mindfulness allows you to target tight areas more effectively. A key technical focus of this class is maintaining proper alignment even during intense stretches. You will practice keeping your knees pulled up and lifted, ensuring that the joints are protected and the muscles are engaged.
We also explore the use of relevé to help settle the hips correctly below the barre, a technique that provides a more stable base for stretching over the leg. This approach helps loosen the hip flexors and inner thighs without compromising your posture. Throughout the class, we emphasize relaxation and focus.
Stretching should never be forced; instead, it should be an exploration of your body's current capabilities. By noticing where tension resides, you can learn where to relax and focus your energy. This holistic approach not only improves your flexibility but also enhances your overall balance and control.
Whether you are working on your attitude or perfecting your line in an arabesque, these barre stretches provide the tools you need to excel in your ballet practice.
