What You'll Learn
- Master the mechanics of turnout through targeted fondu and tendu exercises.
- Improve core stability and postural alignment for more fluid dance movements.
- Develop better leg extensions and hip flexibility with controlled grand battement.
- Refine arm placements and upper body control to develop precision and grace.
- Learn to achieve a 'zip' quality on the floor by balancing strength and release.
About This Video
Welcome to a specialized 40-minute session at Broche Ballet designed to slow down the traditional barre to focus on the nuances of technique. This 'Slow and Gentle' class is an excellent opportunity for dancers to move away from the rush of faster combinations and instead focus on the mechanical precision required for professional-level movement. Throughout this practice, you will work through a comprehensive series of exercises including plié, tendu, and grand plié, all while maintaining a heightened awareness of your core engagement and postural alignment.
A primary focus of this lesson is the development and maintenance of turnout. By utilizing movements like the fondu, you will learn how to sustain external rotation while the leg is in motion, ensuring that your inner thighs are leading the way. We also explore the 'zip' on the floor—the specific quality of movement that requires a balance of initial strength followed by a fluid release. This technique is essential for achieving crisp, clean transitions in your footwork.
In addition to lower body strength, this class emphasizes the importance of the upper body. You will practice controlled arm movements to complement your leg work, learning how to hold your positions with precision and grace. We also incorporate grand battement to safely increase your range of motion and flexibility in the hips. Whether you are looking to fix a specific technical habit or simply want a meditative, focused workout, this barre provides the tools necessary to elevate your dance quality. By the end of the session, you will have a deeper understanding of how en croix patterns and proper weight distribution contribute to a more polished and stable performance.
