What You'll Learn
- The specific ribcage rotation needed to counteract twisting in retiré back
- How to activate your obliques to create structural opposition and stability
- Strategies for maintaining square shoulders during lateral transitions in passé
- Professional tips for finding your center when letting go of the barre
About This Video
Achieving a steady balance in retiré back is a common challenge for many dancers. In this quick tutorial from Broche Ballet, we dive into the subtle anatomical adjustments required to keep your body centered and stable, especially when moving away from the barre. The key to a successful retiré back—often referred to as a passé back—lies not just in the legs, but in the engagement of the upper body.
One of the most frequent mistakes dancers make when letting go of the barre in this position is allowing the torso to twist toward the working leg. To counteract this tendency, you must focus on your ribcage. By lifting and slightly rotating the ribcage toward the standing side, you create the necessary opposition to keep your body square.
For example, if your right leg is in retiré back, you should feel your left ribcage pulling forward while your right ribcage moves back. This internal pull stabilizes the spine and prevents the shoulders from twisting out of alignment. Your obliques play a crucial role in this stabilization process.
Activating these core muscles allows you to maintain a firm center as you transition through various movements. If the exercise involves moving side-to-side, it is essential to keep the shoulders facing front. As you travel, continue to pull the ribcage forward on the side of the working leg to ensure your torso does not rotate away from the audience.
By mastering these small but powerful adjustments, you will find more security in your center work and a more professional line in your dancing. Join us as we refine these essential techniques to help you feel confident and poised in every retiré.
