What You'll Learn
- How to properly engage the inner thighs to support functional turnout
- Techniques for deepening hip opening through the butterfly stretch
- The role of glute bridges in core activation and postural alignment
- Upper body alignment strategies using 'robot arms' to stabilize the torso
- Effective post-practice self-care and massage for dancer recovery
About This Video
Elevate your ballet technique with this focused session from Broche Ballet, designed specifically to enhance your turnout through a combination of targeted stretching and strength-building exercises. Achieving a functional and beautiful turnout is a journey that starts deep within the hip joint and the inner thighs, rather than just forcing the feet. In this class, we move beyond simple stretching to help you find the muscular engagement necessary to maintain your rotation during complex movements.
Our practice begins with foundational exercises such as glute bridges. These are essential not only for strengthening the posterior chain but also for activating the core and establishing a stable base for your turnout. You will also learn to use "robot arms" as a tool for maintaining proper upper body alignment, ensuring that your torso remains engaged and your shoulders remain stable as you focus on the work happening in your legs and hips.
A significant portion of this class is dedicated to the inner thighs. We explore techniques to deepen the classic butterfly stretch, using gravity and gentle manual guidance to coax the hips open. By learning to squeeze the knees together and actively engage the adductors, you create a more resilient and controlled turnout.
We also incorporate movements like the passé to test your rotation in dynamic positions. To round out the session, we emphasize the importance of dancer self-care. After pushing your muscles to their limits, the instructor guides you through relaxation techniques and gentle leg massages to promote recovery and keep your body feeling supple.
Whether you are a beginner looking to understand the basics of rotation or an experienced dancer wanting to refine your hip mobility, this class provides the tools you need to succeed. Grab a belt or bathrobe tie and a pillow for knee support, and join us on the floor to give your legs the love and attention they deserve.
