What You'll Learn
- Techniques to engage the kneecap and fully straighten the leg during barre work.
- How to use fondu exercises to establish better alignment and muscle memory.
- Strategies for releasing tension in the legs and hips for more fluid movement.
- Proper heel placement and weight distribution during tendu and rond de jambe.
- How to maintain a strong core and upright posture throughout slow, controlled sequences.
About This Video
Welcome to a focused, meditative ballet experience with Broche Ballet. In this 23-minute "Deep Dive" follow-along barre, we move beyond the sequence of steps to explore the intricate mechanics of your legs. If you have ever struggled with "soft" knees or difficulty maintaining a long line through your extensions, this class is designed specifically for you. Mastering the art of the straight leg is a cornerstone of classical dance, and this session provides the space to practice that precision.
The session begins with a series of fondu exercises in first position. This foundational movement is essential for warming up the joints while establishing proper alignment from the ground up. We focus heavily on the relationship between the kneecap and the toes: as the kneecap pulls up, the toes must reach away to create maximum length. By moving slowly and with intention, you will learn to engage the correct muscles to support your turn-out and stability, rather than relying on momentum.
As we progress through tendu and rond de jambe exercises, the emphasis remains on the "stretch" behind the knee. You will discover how keeping the heel firmly planted during specific stretches allows for a deeper, more effective lengthening of the hamstring and calf muscles. The instructor provides detailed feedback on releasing unnecessary tension in the hips and legs, ensuring that your strength comes from active engagement rather than muscular gripping. This "melting" quality in the fondu helps build the control needed for more advanced center work.
We also incorporate pliés and grands pliés, focusing on keeping the feet perfectly aligned and the core engaged. This class is not just about physical exertion; it is a mental practice in body awareness and mindfulness. By the end of the session, you will have a better understanding of how to "pull up" through the front of the thigh and maintain those crisp, professional ballet lines throughout your entire practice. Whether you are at home or in the studio, this deep dive will transform how you approach your daily barre.
