This exercise has been crafted to refine dancers' ability to smoothly transfer their weight. It incorporates extensive use of the upper body, head, and arms to help students develop more graceful, coordinated movements. It prepares students for more complicated movements by increasing their spatial awareness, promoting a deeper understanding of balance, and improving the harmonious movement essential for ballet performance.
Preparation:Position students on a fit ball with legs in a wide second position, ensuring the pelvis is elevated and the spine is long. Adjust the ball as necessary to accommodate individual turnout capabilities.
Steps:
1. Have students begin with a port de bras from 1st to 2nd position.
2. Next, they shift their weight to the right, stretching the left foot if possible, coordinating port de bras with head movement.
3. Students return upright, transitioning weight through the centre with arms moving from 1st to 2nd position. They repeat on the alternate side.
4. Have them perform a small pivot (Promenade)to the right (making sure they align the left hip forward) followed by arabesque épaulement with coordinated head and arm movements.
5. Conclude each sequence by returning to centre and repeating on the opposite side. Focus on smooth transitions and proper alignment throughout the movement.
Focus: Emphasise the importance of maintaining hip and pelvis stability during weight shifts and encourage fluid arm and head coordination.
Preguntas frecuentes
How can I help students who struggle with maintaining pelvic alignment during the exercise?
What can be done if a student finds balancing on the fit ball challenging?