What You'll Learn
- Deep stretches to release tension in the inner thighs and hip flexors.
- How to improve femur extension and mobility within the hip socket.
- The importance of counter stretching for muscle recovery and balance.
- Techniques to track your flexibility progress and respect your body's limits.
About This Video
Achieving a functional and beautiful turnout is a cornerstone of classical ballet technique, but it requires more than just forcing the feet into position. In this session at Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the mechanics of the hip joint to help you unlock a more authentic en dehors rotation. By focusing on hip-opening exercises that target the inner thighs and lower back, you will learn how to create space within the hip socket for significantly better mobility and range.
The class guides you through a series of intentional movements, including kneeling stretches and the 'spider' stretch, designed to promote healthy femur bone extension and flexion. We explore the range of motion necessary for high-level ballet work, such as maintaining a stable and deep plié or finding the correct rotation and height in an attitude position. Instead of pushing past your physical limits, the instructor emphasizes the importance of exploring your unique anatomy and identifying specific areas of tightness that may be holding your turnout back.
One of the key concepts covered is the 'counter stretch.' After performing deep rotations or intense extensions, it is vital to balance the body with restorative movements to avoid injury and muscle strain. This practice encourages a mindful approach, incorporating 'butterfly' movements to keep the muscles engaged but relaxed. Whether you are preparing for a session at the barre or cooling down after a demanding center combination, these exercises provide the foundation for improved flexibility and strength.
By taking a daily inventory of your body’s capabilities, you can track your progress and see your turnout improve over time. This mindful approach to stretching ensures that you are building strength alongside flexibility, which is essential for protecting the joints during barre work or jumps like sauté. Join us to refine your range of motion and deepen your understanding of your ballet body.
