What You'll Learn
- How to use equal opposite force in the hips to stabilize your center on demi-pointe.
- Why pushing the knee back in retiré initially feels harder but leads to long-term stability.
- The direct relationship between maximum turnout and successful extensions.
- How proper hip alignment impacts momentum for turns and movement.
About This Video
Finding stability on demi-pointe is a constant pursuit for every dancer. In this insightful Q&A session from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the mechanics of the retiré position and its direct impact on your center of gravity. One common question students ask is whether actively pushing the knee back in retiré actually helps with balance or if it simply adds unnecessary tension.
The short answer is yes—but with a caveat. While achieving a flat, turned-out retiré is the ultimate goal for stability, the initial process of finding that engagement can feel more difficult than keeping the knee slightly forward. When you push your working knee back, you are challenging your hips to work in opposition.
This creates a sense of equal opposite force. At Broche Ballet, we emphasize that balance isn't just about standing still; it's about the active engagement of muscle groups working against each other to find a solid center. In this video, you will learn why both hips must be equally engaged.
If one hip is unengaged while the other is striving for maximum turnout, the pelvis will likely tilt or twist, sending you off-balance. By reaching for your maximum turnout on both the standing leg and the working leg simultaneously, you create a stable foundation. This technical adjustment is crucial not just for static balance, but for moving into extensions or preparing for pirouettes where momentum is involved.
While it may feel like you are working harder in the short term, mastering this knee back position is the key to unlocking higher-level ballet technique. Whether you are practicing at the barre or in the center, focusing on this hip alignment will transform your demi-pointe stability. Join us as we explore the nuances of turnout and how to build the strength required for a truly professional silhouette.
