What You'll Learn
- The mechanics of port de bras to create a fluid, elegant upper body presence.
- Techniques to avoid 'T-Rex arms' by maintaining reach and intentional arm placement.
- Coordination between arm movements and leg extensions during développé.
- How to maintain a wide chest and open shoulders for superior postural alignment.
- Mind-body exercises to memorize the specific sensations of correct ballet technique.
About This Video
In this comprehensive 46-minute beginner ballet barre class, we shift the focus from simple footwork to the artistry of the upper body. While the legs provide the foundation of dance, it is the port de bras—the carriage of the arms—that creates a truly polished and professional look. At Broche Ballet, we prioritize helping adult dancers understand the nuances of arm placement and movement to achieve a graceful, cohesive performance.
Throughout this session, you will explore how to maintain a wide chest and open shoulders, ensuring your alignment remains stable even during challenging exercises. A common hurdle for many beginners is the "T-Rex arm," where the elbow collapses or the arm loses its reach. We work specifically on correcting this by finding the right sensations in the back and shoulders, helping you achieve a long, elegant line. The instructor provides detailed corrections to ensure your shoulders stay wide and your movements remain fluid.
A key highlight of this class is the focus on the développé. We often concentrate so much on the height of the leg that the arms become static or disconnected. You will learn how to give your arms more "presence" than your legs, ensuring they stay active and supportive. We break down the coordination required so that as the leg goes up, the arm remains intentional—whether staying out or transitioning to a flat line. By focusing on these specific physical sensations, you will begin to memorize the feeling of proper technique, building the muscle memory necessary for more advanced center work. Whether you are refining your plié or mastering a complex développé sequence, these upper body principles will elevate your entire ballet practice. Join us at the barre to refine your grace and gain the confidence of a polished performer.
