What You'll Learn
- The technique for maintaining turnout during dynamic center weight transfers.
- Proper foot placement and ankle angles when moving from fifth position to tendu.
- How to coordinate a plié and push-off for stable, controlled weight changes.
- Drills for keeping the heel forward to ensure alignment during center work.
About This Video
Stability in center is one of the most challenging aspects of ballet training. Moving from the support of the barre to the open floor requires a deep engagement of the core and a meticulous focus on alignment. This specialized practice session from Broche Ballet focuses specifically on drills designed to help you hold your balance and maintain consistent turnout while performing center combinations.
The class begins with a series of tendu exercises that emphasize the precise placement of the foot. You will explore how to put your foot down at the correct angle when moving from a fifth position into a tendu, ensuring that your turnout is initiated from the hip and held through the ankle. The instructor provides detailed cues on keeping the heel forward, a critical component for maintaining the classical line and preventing the foot from rolling.
A significant portion of the session is dedicated to the mechanics of transferring weight. You will practice moving from one foot to the other, focusing on the plié and push-off phase. The goal is to ensure that the back leg reaches the same turned-out angle as the front leg, creating a seamless and stable transition. By practicing these smooth weight transfers, you will build the muscle memory needed for more complex movements like adagio and pirouettes.
Throughout the class, the focus remains on the waistline and the direction of movement. You will learn to move your position forward without compromising the shape or alignment of the supporting side. Whether you are working on the right or left leg, the exercises are repeated with careful attention to symmetry. By integrating these drills into your regular practice, you will develop the strength and control necessary to stand tall and balanced in the center of the room.
