What You'll Learn
- How to establish a strong center through arm positioning and controlled demi-pointe transitions.
- Techniques for engaging the glutes and core to maintain turnout during fondu and rond de jambe.
- Applying pivot movements and 'up and over' mechanics to improve stability for pirouettes.
- Proper alignment for landing in tendu back and arabesque while maintaining a vertical center.
About This Video
Finding your center is one of the most rewarding yet challenging aspects of ballet training. In this 13-minute follow-along class with Broche Ballet, we transition away from the barre to focus entirely on stability, control, and core engagement. This session is designed for dancers who want to move beyond the physical support of the barre and cultivate a self-sustaining sense of balance through intentional movement and proper alignment.
We begin with slow, deliberate exercises to establish your vertical alignment. By opening and closing the arms with precision, you will learn to find your center of gravity before adding complex footwork. The class progresses into demi-pointe work, where the instructor emphasizes the importance of lifting and lowering with control. You will practice bringing one foot to a coup-de-pied position while maintaining a strong standing leg, ensuring your knees stay back and your hips remain level. This foundational work is essential for anyone looking to eventually progress to more advanced center work or dancing en pointe.
As the session moves into more dynamic center work, the focus shifts to specific muscle engagement. You will explore tendu and fondu exercises that require a deep "hip drive" and active glute engagement. By squeezing and flexing through the fondu position, you create the necessary tension to support your frame during transitions. The instructor also guides you through rond de jambe and tiret, focusing on maintaining turnout even as the leg moves through different planes of space.
One of the key takeaways from this session is the use of the pivot and the "up and over" sensation required for successful pirouettes. You will practice lifting over the standing leg and landing gracefully in tendu back or arabesque. Throughout the video, you will receive constant cues to press your heels into the floor and maintain turnout, even during forward and backward bends. This comprehensive approach ensures that you aren't just holding a pose, but actively "dancing" your balance.
