What You'll Learn
- How to maintain square hips and avoid twisting in fourth position.
- The proper distance and alignment for a stable, compact fourth position.
- Techniques for balancing turnout evenly between the front and back legs.
- Correct pelvic placement during demi-plié and transitions at the barre.
- Engaging the arch and aligning the kneecaps for safer demi-pointe work.
About This Video
Welcome to a specialized technique session at Broche Ballet. This 27-minute 'Deep Dive' follow-along barre is designed specifically for dancers who crave a slow, meditative, and highly detailed approach to their training. In this class, we move beyond the basic steps to explore the intricate mechanics of pelvic placement and the complexities of fourth position (quatrième position).
Fourth position is often cited as one of the most challenging foundations in ballet because it requires a delicate balance of turnout, hip alignment, and core stability. Many dancers struggle with a pelvis that 'twists' or 'opens' in this position, leading to instability during turns or jumps. The instructor guides you through a series of exercises starting at the barre, emphasizing a compact fourth position—usually about half a foot’s length apart.
This proximity allows for a more focused correction of the hips, ensuring you can pull the back hip forward and the front hip back into a truly square alignment. Throughout the session, you will practice movements like tendu and demi-plié, paying close attention to the track of the kneecaps over the toes. This level of detail is essential for protecting the joints and building the functional strength required for more advanced work on demi-pointe or even en pointe.
By slowing down the tempo, this class gives you the space to feel the engagement of the arch and the rotation deep within the hip socket. Whether you are an intermediate dancer looking to polish your technique or an advanced student returning to basics, this Broche Ballet class provides the anatomical insights necessary to transform your fourth position from a struggle into a stable, powerful foundation for your dance practice.
