What You'll Learn
- Fluid demi-plié and stretch sequences in first and fourth positions to improve mobility.
- Dynamic tendu and fondu combinations to enhance center-floor balance and control.
- The proper execution of rond de jambe and retiré without the support of a barre.
- Techniques for finding a stable sous-sus balance and strengthening the ankles.
- How to coordinate classical ballet terminology with rhythmic jazz music timing.
About This Video
Welcome to an energizing 11-minute ballet center warmup designed to wake up your body and sharpen your focus. At Broche Ballet, we love finding new ways to make traditional technique feel fresh, and this class uses the soulful rhythms of jazz music to guide you through a series of essential exercises. Moving away from the barre requires extra core engagement and stability, making this 'center barre' style warmup an excellent way to prepare for more advanced center work or a jazz-influenced choreography.
The session begins with a foundational demi-plié and stretch in first position, incorporating a graceful allongé to find length through the arms and upper body. As the music flows, you will transition into a series of tendu and fondu exercises. These combinations are designed to build heat in the legs while challenging your balance, particularly during the tendu front and the deep fondu with a cambré. We also incorporate four demi-pliés in fourth position to ensure the ankles and calves are fully prepared for movement.
A key component of this warmup is the rond de jambe combination. You will work through a sequence of fondu with brushes to the front, side, and back, requiring precise control of the turnout. To further refine your technique, we practice a retiré sequence—plié, retiré, plié, and relevé in fifth position—to strengthen the standing leg and find your center of gravity. We conclude the session with a steady sous-sus balance to test your ankle stability. By repeating these sequences, you will find a deeper connection to your technique and the music, leaving you ready for whatever your dance day holds.
