What You'll Learn
- Techniques for aligning your weight over the standing heel for better balance
- Coordinating the timing of the toe reaching the knee during a relevé
- Strengthening the glutes and core to maintain turnout in passé
- Barre drills including coup-de-pied and retiré to improve ankle stability
About This Video
Build a rock-solid foundation for your dancing with this targeted session from Broche Ballet. In this class, we focus specifically on relevé passé drills at the barre, a vital component for mastering balance and preparing for successful pirouettes. The ability to move efficiently from a plié into a stable retiré position requires a combination of strength, timing, and precise alignment.
Throughout the video, you will be guided through a series of exercises starting with the right leg in front. We emphasize the critical 'nose over standing heel' alignment, which ensures your weight is correctly placed to support a high relevé. You will practice the essential timing of the movement, aiming to have the toe reach the knee the very instant the heel leaves the floor.
The instructor provides detailed cues on engaging the glutes and keeping the kneecap pulled up to maintain a strong, active standing leg. We also cover variations including lowering the heel down and up while in passé to challenge your stability, as well as incorporating coup-de-pied and retiré drills. A key focus of this lesson is the use of the barre itself; you are encouraged to maintain a light, gentle grip to ensure you are finding your own balance rather than relying on external support.
By keeping your shoulders down and your core engaged, you will learn to stay upright in your plié without leaning forward. These drills are essential for dancers looking to refine their technique and build the muscle memory required for professional-level execution. Join us at the barre and take the next step in your ballet journey.
