What You'll Learn
- Master complex character steps including the pas de basque and coupé ballonné.
- Build cardiovascular endurance through sustained 2-minute dance sequences.
- Learn to drive movement from the hips while maintaining upper body relaxation.
- Develop coordination and rhythm through high-energy stylized footwork.
- Refine transitions between sauté, balancé, and arabesque positions.
About This Video
Welcome to a high-energy fusion of classical technique and cardiovascular conditioning with Julie at Broche Ballet. This Character Dance Cardio class is designed to push your endurance while refining the unique stylistic nuances of character work found in major classical ballets. Unlike a standard barre session, this class focuses on longer combinations—some lasting up to two minutes—to help you build the stamina required for full-stage performances.
Character dance is an essential part of a well-rounded ballet education, bringing the folklore and national dances of the world to the stage. In this session, we dive into complex sequences involving the pas de basque, sauté arabesque, and coupé ballonné. These steps require a blend of precision and abandon. You will learn how to relax the upper body, especially the chest and shoulders, allowing the hips to become the primary driver of your movement. This "hips push, shoulders stay" approach creates the beautiful, swaying fluidity characteristic of Slavic and European folk-inspired ballet styles.
We understand that these movements can feel awkward at first. That is why this class emphasizes repetition and patience. As you move through the cardio sequences, Julie guides you through the transitions, encouraging you to find comfort even as the tempo increases. By the end of the 25 minutes, you will have mastered a significant choreography block, boosting both your confidence and your heart rate.
Whether you are practicing on a rug or in sneakers to accommodate the high-impact jumps, this class provides a professional studio experience from the comfort of home. This session includes specific movements such as the balancé and various jumping patterns like the sauté to keep your heart rate elevated while maintaining classical form. Join us to improve your coordination, master stylized footwork, and find a new sense of freedom in your upper body movement. Experience the joy of character dance and take your ballet training to the next level with Broche Ballet’s expert instruction.
