What You'll Learn
- The physical sensation of lengthening the spine without creating unnecessary tension.
- How to maintain a neutral head position while grounding your heels.
- The difference between muscular contraction and the concept of 'separation'.
- Practical cues to maintain a lifted posture throughout your entire ballet class.
About This Video
"Pulling up" is one of the most fundamental yet frequently misunderstood concepts in ballet. At Broche Ballet, we believe that understanding the mechanics of your body is the key to achieving that effortless, ethereal quality seen on stage. This quick tip dives into the specific physical sensations and mental cues required to master the "pull up" and how you can apply this to your daily practice.
Contrary to popular belief, pulling up is not about simply sucking in your stomach or tensing every muscle in your body until you are stiff. Instead, it is a dynamic action of lengthening the spine. Imagine a string gently pulling you from the crown of your head toward the ceiling, while simultaneously feeling your heels firmly connected to the floor. This creates a sense of separation between the different parts of your body, providing the internal space needed for fluid movement and stability. This lift is essential for maintaining balance during a challenging "relevé" or finding clarity in a "tendu".
One common mistake dancers make when trying to pull up is lifting the shoulders or tilting the chin too high. In this lesson, we emphasize keeping the head in a fixed, neutral position. By focusing on the opposition between the top of the head and the heels, you create the long, elegant line that is the hallmark of the ballet aesthetic. This internal lift helps support your weight, making it significantly easier to move through a deep "plié" or transition into center work without losing your center of gravity.
Your mindset plays a huge role in your physical execution. Rather than thinking of a "contraction"—which can lead to restricted breathing and rigidity—think of "expansion." You are creating space in your joints. This feeling of separation allows you to stay lifted through the torso while your legs remain grounded and powerful. Whether you are working at the "barre" or performing across the floor, mastering the pull-up will transform your alignment and overall dance quality.
