What You'll Learn
- How to maintain a fully extended knee during fondu and développé
- Techniques for keeping the standing leg straight during high extensions
- Developing 'calligraphy-like' precision with large leg joints
- Improving the aesthetic line in tendu and arabesque
- Engaging the core to support long, lean leg movements
About This Video
Welcome to this specialized technique barre class at Broche Ballet, designed specifically to help you achieve those beautiful, long, straight legs that define the classical ballet aesthetic. This 41-minute session focuses on the "calligraphy" of ballet—the intricate, precise control over large joints, specifically the knees. Often, as we move through complex combinations, it is easy for the knees to soften or sag, especially when gravity pulls on the working leg or when the standing leg is under pressure.
This class uses slow, deliberate combinations to build the muscle memory and strength necessary to fight that pull and maintain a professional line. Throughout the class, we dive deep into essential ballet movements including tendu, fondu, and développé. You will learn to treat your legs like a fine instrument, focusing on every millimeter of extension.
We explore the importance of keeping the standing leg locked and strong during an arabesque and maintaining that straight-as-an-arrow look during a grand battement. By slowing down the tempo, we allow the body to truly feel the engagement of the quadriceps and the rotation from the hip, ensuring that the knee remains fully extended without buckling. The instructor provides detailed cues on core engagement and posture, which are the foundations of leg control.
If the center is weak, the legs cannot reach their full potential. We will work through exercises en croix, focusing on the transition between positions and the discipline required for a perfect retiré. By the end of this session, you will have a better understanding of how to finish your lines, creating the illusion of length and grace that is so vital to classical performance.
Whether you are working toward pointe work or simply want to clean up your technique, this barre is an essential addition to your training regimen. Join us at Broche Ballet and transform your leg lines with precision and intent.
