What You'll Learn
- The proper mechanics of grand battement, including the use of a miniature second position for hip stability.
- Techniques for engaging the lats and maintaining shoulder stillness to improve upper body control.
- Correct execution of tendu and battement in all four directions to build balanced lower body strength.
- How to maintain proper posture and alignment during transitions between passé and arabesque.
About This Video
Welcome to a focused, 39-minute foundational practice at Broche Ballet. This session is specifically designed for beginner students who want to move beyond simply following along and instead master the intricate mechanics of ballet. By slowing down the tempo, we allow the body time to find the correct engagement, ensuring that every movement is executed with precision and grace.
The core of this class focuses on the mechanics of the grand battement and tendu. You will learn the importance of moving through a 'miniature second position' during extensions to prevent the common mistake of bending the knee or hiking the hip. The instructor provides detailed cues on upper body stability, emphasizing how to engage the lats by pressing down on the barre. This engagement is crucial for maintaining still shoulders and a quiet torso, even as the legs perform large, powerful movements.
Throughout the workout, you will progress through exercises en croix—front, side, back, and side—to develop balanced strength and poise. We cover essential positions and movements including passé, arabesque, and pas de bourrée, all while maintaining a strict focus on posture and control. By the end of this barre practice, you will have a deeper understanding of how to use the barre as a tool for stability, leading to better balance and more disciplined technique in the center. Whether you are an absolute beginner or an experienced dancer looking to refine your basics, this slow and controlled approach provides the perfect environment to build a strong balletic foundation.
