What You'll Learn
- How to identify and correct an anterior pelvic tilt in first position.
- Techniques for flattening the 'crease' at the front of the hip joint.
- Maintaining a neutral pelvis and alignment during a plié.
- The role of hip flexor lengthening in achieving better balance and power.
About This Video
Finding a neutral pelvis is one of the most transformative adjustments a dancer can make for their technique and longevity. In this Broche Ballet tutorial, we dive deep into the mechanics of flattening the front of your hips to eliminate the common 'swayback' or anterior pelvic tilt that many dancers face. When standing in first position, the angle of your pelvis dictates your center of gravity and your ability to engage your core effectively.
A visible crease or fold at the front of the hip indicates a tilt that can hinder your range of motion and lead to lower back strain. By learning how to tuck under slightly—focusing specifically on the hip joint rather than rounding the lumbar spine—you create a flat, powerful line. This alignment is especially crucial during a plié.
As you descend, the natural tendency is for the pelvis to tilt back, but maintaining that flat front allows for better engagement of the rotators and more stability upon the rise. This mental shift from 'sitting' in the hips to 'lengthening' through the front of the hip joint is what distinguishes a beginner’s stance from a professional’s alignment. You may feel a significant stretch along the hip flexors as you find this position; this sensation is a positive indicator that you are lengthening the front of your legs and creating space in the joint.
This adjustment isn't just about aesthetics; it is about finding a neutral pelvis that allows for maximum power and effortless balance in every movement. Whether you are working at the barre or in center, mastering this hip alignment will provide the stable foundation necessary for advanced jumps and turns. Over time, this becomes second nature, allowing you to move with more grace and less tension.
Join Broche Ballet as we break down these subtle but essential shifts in alignment that help you achieve a truly professional line.