What You'll Learn
- Deep hip opening techniques using the 'pretzel' and stacked leg positions.
- How to actively engage the glutes while stretching to improve mobility.
- Proper alignment for ballet-specific floor stretches to avoid common joint strain.
- Integrated breathwork and relaxation methods to enhance muscle lengthening.
- Symmetrical stretching routines to ensure balanced flexibility across both sides of the body.
About This Video
Flexibility is a cornerstone of elegant ballet technique, allowing for higher extensions, deeper lines, and more fluid movements. In this specialized flexibility session from Broche Ballet, we move away from the barre to focus on intensive, floor-based stretches. This class is specifically designed to target the hips, glutes, and legs through a series of seated and lying exercises that prioritize both range of motion and muscular engagement. By working on the floor, you can isolate specific muscle groups without the challenge of maintaining balance, allowing for a deeper and more focused stretch.
Throughout this session, you will learn to utilize your breath as a tool to sink deeper into each movement. The instructor guides you through complex shapes like the 'pretzel' stretch, which is essential for opening the hips, and various stacked leg positions that target the glutes and quads. A key focus of this practice is the distinction between passive and active stretching; you will be encouraged to squeeze the glutes and maintain muscle engagement to protect the joints while increasing your reach. The instructor also highlights common alignment mistakes, such as improper ankle-to-knee stacking, ensuring that your practice remains safe and effective for the specific demands of ballet.
This practice incorporates elements inspired by Pilates and yoga, adapted specifically for the needs of a dancer. By focusing on both parallel and turned-out positions, you develop the functional flexibility required for movements like a high developpé or a deep, controlled plié. The session also incorporates dedicated relaxation and rest techniques, concluding with guided movements that ensure your muscles can recover and lengthen effectively. Please note that this video focuses strictly on the stretching portion of a workout and does not include a warm-up. To prevent injury and get the most out of these deep stretches, we recommend performing a series of tendu and dégagé exercises or a light aerobic activity before beginning. Join the Broche Ballet community and transform your flexibility from the ground up.
