What You'll Learn
- Nerve glides and dynamic stretches to release tension in the elbows and forearms.
- Techniques for widening the shoulder blades and opening the chest for improved posture.
- How to isolate the upper arm in the shoulder socket for better control in port de bras.
- Muscle memory exercises for maintaining supported elbows in first and second position.
About This Video
Port de bras is the soul of ballet, giving movement its elegance and breath. In this targeted 8-minute class from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the conditioning and repetitive movements required to achieve graceful, supported arm carriage. Whether you are struggling with 'heavy' arms or looking to refine the pathways between positions, this session provides the technical foundation you need for a more polished performance.
The class begins with a series of active rotations and stretches designed to wake up the muscles of the upper back and shoulders. We focus on the importance of the shoulder blades, learning how to pull them wide to create a spacious chest and a strong, stable base for the arms. By wiggling the fingers to release tension, you will learn to shape the traditional ballet hand, avoiding stiffness while maintaining a long, reaching line through the fingertips.
Specific attention is given to the alignment of the elbows and forearms. You will learn to isolate the upper arm within the shoulder socket, a crucial skill for maintaining the integrity of first position and second position. We explore how to keep the elbows forward and supported even as the arms move through low fifth, preventing the 'dropped' look that often occurs during complex transitions.
By lifting the ears off the shoulders, you create the long, elegant neckline essential for a professional ballet aesthetic. Through repetitive port de bras sequences, you will build the muscular endurance necessary for longer adagio and allegro combinations. This class isn't just about moving the arms; it is about understanding the internal mechanics of the upper body.
By the end of this session, your arms will feel longer, your back will feel stronger, and your movement will possess a new level of clarity and grace.
