Ballet Flexibility Flow: Deep Hamstring and 1st Position Stretching

Welcome to your dedicated flexibility practice with Broche Ballet. This 13-minute session is specifically designed to target the muscle groups most critical for classical ballet: the hamstrings, hips, and lower back. Unlike traditional static stretching, this Flexibility Flow focuses on the concept of negotiation—the art of listening to your body's limits and gently working through tension rather than forcing movement.

Throughout this practice, we emphasize the importance of proper body alignment. You will learn why maintaining a long spine and stretching forward is often more beneficial for your ballet technique than rounding the back just to reach further. We dive deep into the mechanics of rotation, exploring how internal and external movements can help open up the hip joints to improve your 1st position and overall turnout.

For those who experience tightness or knee discomfort, we provide modifications using blocks. These props are essential for finding comfort in poses like the butterfly, allowing you to focus on the stretch in the hips rather than straining the joints. We also incorporate self-massage techniques to identify and rub out tender spots, which helps in muscle recovery and overall physical well-being.

Beyond the physical stretches, this class integrates deep breathing techniques. Breath is a dancer’s best tool for relaxation and stress relief, allowing the body to settle into deeper ranges of motion. By focusing on the quadriceps and calves as well as the hamstrings, you create a balanced approach to leg flexibility.

This holistic view of the body ensures that you are building the functional mobility required for high-level ballet technique. Regular practice of these techniques will lead to improved lines and a more stable center. Whether you are warming up for a full barre session or cooling down after a long day, this flow provides the essential tools to enhance your dance journey with Broche Ballet.