What You'll Learn
- How to achieve and maintain correct pelvic alignment in fourth position.
- Techniques to engage the upper back for a tall, elegant ballet posture.
- The mechanics of opposition: spiraling knees and pulling heels for better balance.
- Foundational execution of plié, tendu, and fondu with proper form and core engagement.
About This Video
Join Broche Ballet for an essential 25-minute follow-along class focused on the architectural foundations of classical dance: posture and alignment. This session is meticulously designed for beginners who want to understand the mechanics of their bodies while working at the barre. We dive deep into the complexities of the fourth position, a notoriously challenging placement that requires precise coordination between the pelvis, upper back, and legs.
Throughout the class, you will learn how to maintain a tall, straight spine by understanding the natural curves of the upper spine and how to prevent the common mistake of pushing the hips back or arching the lumbar region. We utilize a series of fundamental exercises, including plié, tendu, and rond de jambe, to help you feel the connection between your core and your extremities. You will also practice fondu and various leg-strengthening movements to build the necessary strength and flexibility for more advanced combinations.
A significant portion of this lesson focuses on the "Pilates crutch" concept, emphasizing core strength and pelvic stability as the engine for all movement. By focusing on keeping the knees spiraling back and the heels pulling forward, you will discover a new sense of balance and control. Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to refine your squareness and verticality, this class provides the professional feedback and anatomical cues needed to excel.
Our instructor guides you through breathing and relaxation techniques to ensure that while your muscles are working, your movement remains fluid and graceful. In this session, we also incorporate Pilates-inspired movements to strengthen the deep stabilizer muscles often neglected in standard workouts. By integrating these exercises into your ballet practice, you develop the internal support necessary for holding difficult positions.
This holistic approach ensures that you are building a functional, dancing body. Build the confidence to dance with better form and prevent injury by mastering these core principles today.
