What You'll Learn
- Techniques to improve functional turnout on a single leg and in demi-pointe
- Port de bras exercises to mobilize the shoulders and engage the back muscles
- Dynamic balance and core engagement through targeted cou-de-pied and fondu work
- Strengthening the upper body by focusing on proper shoulder blade placement
- A repeatable warmup routine to prepare the hips and shoulders for full class work
About This Video
Welcome to this focused ballet warmup session at Broche Ballet, designed specifically to target standing turnout and port de bras conditioning. A thorough warmup is essential for any dancer, as it not only prevents injury but also establishes the muscle memory required for advanced technique. In this class, we dive deep into the mechanics of rotation and upper-body fluidity.
We begin with a series of port de bras exercises. Moving through the shoulders and arms, we focus on rotating from the back and engaging the shoulder blades. By exploring arm movements that reach toward the side walls and transition through first and fifth positions, you will learn to maintain a stable core while finding expressive freedom in your upper body.
Starting in a parallel position, we work on the transition to external rotation, ensuring the movement comes from the hip joints rather than the knees or ankles. The inclusion of squeezing the shoulder blades helps in building the necessary strength for a proud, classical posture. The session then shifts focus toward the lower body, specifically standing turnout.
Achieving a functional turnout requires more than just rotating the feet; it involves the deep external rotators of the hip. We practice turnout on a single leg, integrating movements such as cou-de-pied and fondu to challenge your stability. By scooping the arms and performing big circles, you learn to coordinate your limbs while keeping your weight centered over the supporting leg.
When working in cou-de-pied, you will focus on the wrapping action of the foot, which is vital for petit battement and other allegro steps later in class. As we progress into demi-pointe work, the focus intensifies on balance and core engagement. Staying lifted through the arches and squeezing the glutes and shoulder blades will help you find a secure center.
Whether you are working with straight legs or moving through a melting fondu, the emphasis remains on control and precision. This routine is an excellent way to prepare for a full ballet class or can be used as a standalone conditioning sequence to improve your overall flexibility and strength. Join us at Broche Ballet to elevate your training with these professional insights into turnout and port de bras.
