10-Minute Ballet Port de Bras Stretch and Strength Warmup

Mastering the art of port de bras is essential for every ballet dancer, as it provides the elegance and frame that completes every movement. In this 10-minute workout from Broche Ballet, we focus specifically on the strength and flexibility required for beautiful, fluid arm carriage. Whether you are preparing for a full class or just looking to improve your upper body presence, this sequence targets the often-overlooked muscles of the back and shoulders.

We begin our warmup in a gentle first position, centering our focus on the alignment of the torso and ribs. From there, we transition into second position, where we work on the allongé—a reaching movement through long fingers that creates a sense of expansion. A key component of this routine is the engagement of the back muscles.

By squeezing the elbows in and lifting under them, you build the necessary foundation to keep your arms from feeling heavy during long combinations. As the exercise progresses, we incorporate small circles and pulses to build endurance in the shoulder joint. You will practice the essential rotation of the triceps and elbows to maintain a professional line.

We also spend time in high fifth position, ensuring the shoulders stay anchored down even as the arms reach their peak height. By focusing on the detail of each arm independently, you will gain better control over your elbow placement and hand shaping. This port de bras warmup is designed to be accessible yet challenging, helping you build the muscle memory needed for effortless movement.

Keeping the ribs in and the core engaged throughout these exercises ensures that your arm movements remain connected to your center. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine these essential skills to elevate your dance practice and develop the carriage of a professional dancer.