What You'll Learn
- Techniques for 'flicky' foot articulation to increase speed in dégagé and frappé.
- How to engage hip flexors properly for higher passé and développé positions.
- Pelvic alignment strategies to maintain turnout and stability during grand plié.
- The technical difference between smooth and battu coup-de-pied transitions.
- Proper shoulder-to-heel alignment for a more stable and secure sous-sous balance.
About This Video
Welcome to a comprehensive 42-minute beginner ballet barre class from Broche Ballet, specifically designed to refine your technical foundation. This session focuses on three essential pillars of classical dance: foot articulation, hip flexor activation, and the precision of the passé. Whether you are looking to increase the height of your leg or simply want to feel more stable in your basic positions, this class offers the detailed instruction necessary for technical growth.
We begin with a thorough sequence of exercises starting at the barre, including plié, tendu, and dégagé. A key technical focus throughout is the 'flicky' quality of the feet. By focusing on how the toes engage with the floor during quick movements like frappé and dégagé, you will build the speed and dexterity needed for more complex combinations.
We also delve into the mechanics of the hip flexors to improve leg height. Many dancers find that their extensions plateau; in this class, we practice lifting the knee slightly higher just before extension, which helps in achieving a more effortless and stable développé. Alignment is a recurring theme, particularly during demanding movements like the grand plié.
You will learn to drive the hips forward directly under the ears to maintain a vertical spine and avoid the common mistake of leaning forward. We also explore the subtle differences in foot placement, comparing the smooth, gliding method of changing coup-de-pied with the percussive, rhythmic 'battu' variation. To wrap up the session, we focus on stability and balance.
Exercises like fondu and grand battement prepare the body for the center, while a focused sous-sous balance helps you find your vertical axis. By connecting the shoulders to the heels, you will develop the internal core strength required for steady balances. This class is an excellent resource for anyone wanting to build the strength and precision required for transitions into center work and beyond.
