What You'll Learn
- Techniques to stabilize the ribs and prevent them from popping during leg movements.
- How to isolate arm movements to ensure the upper body does not react to leg momentum.
- Proper shoulder and bicep placement to maintain a classical line in all positions.
- Specific alignment strategies for the upper back during retiré and attitude front.
- Exercises to improve coordination and independent movement between the limbs and the torso.
About This Video
Achieving a graceful, classical line in ballet requires more than just strong legs; it demands an intelligent and stabilized upper body. In this Technique Barre class from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the mechanics of the upper back, shoulders, and ribs. Often, as the legs work through demanding exercises like grand battement or fondu, the upper body tends to react, causing the ribs to pop or the shoulders to tense.
This 42-minute session is designed to break those habits by teaching you how to isolate your port de bras from your lower body movements. Throughout the class, we utilize slow combinations to bring awareness to spinal alignment. You will learn to keep the ribs stabilized while the arms move fluidly through different positions.
We explore how to move the arm—keeping the bicep close to the ear when necessary—without disrupting the stillness of the torso. By focusing on holding the arm bone in place, you will develop the strength to prevent the upper body from echoing the momentum of the legs. This is particularly crucial during transitions into retiré, attitude, and allongé.
The instructor guides you through essential barre work, including tendu, plié, and rond de jambe, with a specific focus on maintaining an up and forward upper back. This alignment not only improves your aesthetic line but also prepares you for the rigors of center work, including jumps and pointe work, where upper body stability is the key to balance. Whether you are working on your balançoire or refining your port de bras during a fondu, this class provides the technical cues necessary to elevate your dancing.
Join us at Broche Ballet to build a more controlled, professional, and stable ballet silhouette.
